Glasgow's Low Emission Zone - Will It Work for Everyone?

by Jade Sovron

Introduction

Glasgow recently implemented a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in the city center to reduce air pollution from vehicle emissions. As of June 2023, the scheme is now fully enforced with fines for non-compliant vehicles. But will the LEZ be successful for all Glasgow residents and businesses? There are some concerns.

Concerns about the LEZ

  • Cost of upgrading vehicles - Upgrading to a compliant vehicle may be prohibitively expensive for lower income owners of older cars who don't qualify for scrappage grants. Even with assistance, the transition could be difficult for some.

  • Steep penalties - Penalties seem steep at £60-480 for cars and almost £1000 for lorries. Regular drivers in non-compliant vehicles face heavy fines.

  • Limited area - The LEZ is currently limited to the city center. Expanding it could improve air quality in other areas but impact many more vehicles.

  • Unfair impact - Critics argue the penalties unfairly target those who can't afford cleaner cars, especially those who are disabled or vulnerable but don’t qualify for the scrappage schemes.

  • Impact on families - Some argue the LEZ represents an unfair tax on poorer families and large families who cannot practically switch to smaller compliant vehicles due to needing more than 5 seats.

Issues with LEZ effectiveness

  • Worryingly, nitrogen dioxide levels at traditionally Glasgow's most polluted area around Glasgow Central Station have actually gone up by over 12% since the LEZ was introduced.

  • More broadly, it may take time for the LEZ to demonstrate concrete health improvements. Reductions so far remain unclear.

Wider context

With the war in Ukraine, soaring energy and food costs, and high levels of alcohol-related deaths, many Glaswegians are already struggling. Upgrading vehicles to meet LEZ standards represents an added financial stress. And steep penalties for non-compliance seem an excessive extra burden.

Conclusion

The Glasgow LEZ may unfairly impact lower income residents and not yet deliver clear air quality improvements across the whole city. The scheme's penalties and limited scope place heavy burdens on already struggling sections of the population. More adjustments may be needed for the LEZ to work for all Glasgow residents and businesses.