By Katie Forrester
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15 Feb, 2021
A Clean Air Zone (CAZ) is an area where targeted action is taken to improve air quality, in particular by discouraging the most polluting vehicles from entering the zone. The aim of a CAZ is to address all sources of pollution, including nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter, and reduce public exposure to them using a range of measures tailored to the particular location. A report carried out by The Royal College of Physicians assessed the impact air pollution was having on public health. The results of this study suggested that 40,000 people die prematurely each year in the UK due to poor air quality. The Government have responded by publishing a document called The Clean Air Strategy. This is a key document in tackling air pollution, making our air healthier to breathe, protecting nature and boosting the economy. It requires local authorities to assess air quality in their region and make mandatory changes if they are above the regulated limit. CAZs are implemented in areas where air pollution levels are dangerous to public health. Implementing these zones is key to improving air quality and supporting the transition to a low carbon future. In a CAZ, if your vehicle exceeds emission standards, you may have to pay a charge to drive it. High polluting vehicles such as busses, HGV’s and taxis will be amongst those to face charges to these zones. The first of the proposed CAZ’s to be launched will be in Bath on the 15th March 2021, followed by Birmingham on 1st June 2021. More cities will implement CAZ’s later in 2021 and in 2022. You will only have to pay a charge for vehicles that do not meet emission standards when the first CAZ in Bath starts charging. There are multiple options to explore when seeking support to reduce emissions and stop paying CAZ charges. The Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) offer a range of grants to help you choose cleaner vehicles. The Go Ultra Low Campaign has information about electric vehicles and also includes grants which you can apply for. The Clean Air Fund provides support to individuals and businesses. They offer local travel discounts, cycling to work schemes or vehicle upgrades. Your local authority may also be able to provide support to help you upgrade or replace your vehicle. Lepus thinks that the introduction of Clean Air Zones will be extremely positive. We need cleaner air as soon as possible to ensure more people live healthier lives.