Cities' Innovative Strategies To Reduce Air Pollution

Air pollution is a pressing issue in cities around the world, with over 90% of people breathing in air that the World Health Organization (WHO) deems potentially harmful. The main sources of air pollution include vehicle emissions, power plants, and crop burning, and the health consequences are dire, causing about 7 million premature deaths annually from ailments such as stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer. Many cities are taking innovative steps to tackle this problem. For example, Paris has barred the most polluting vehicles from the city center, reclaimed roads for pedestrians and cyclists, and expanded its network of bike lanes. Seoul, South Korea, is creating a wind path forest by planting trees along rivers and roads to channel air into the city center and absorb pollutants. New York City has committed $1.4 billion to renewable energy projects, while Bogota is imposing strict emissions standards on heavy-polluting vehicles and expanding its bicycle path network. These cities are leading the way in the fight against air pollution, implementing creative solutions to improve the health and well-being of their residents.

Restricting car parking, reducing speed limits, and banning certain vehicles

Restricting car parking is one strategy cities are employing to reduce air pollution. This discourages car use and can help reduce traffic congestion, a major source of air pollution. In Paris, for example, the mayor, Anne Hidalgo, is aiming to transform the city into ""a walkable city", where residents can meet their needs within a 15-minute stroll. This initiative involves banning cars from certain areas, such as the Seine River quayside, and reclaiming road space for pedestrians and green spaces.

Reducing speed limits is another tactic used by cities to curb air pollution. Slower traffic speeds can help decrease vehicle emissions, improving air quality. This approach is often complemented by other traffic management strategies, such as smart traffic lights, which optimise traffic flow and reduce vehicle delays and idling, further contributing to reduced pollution.

In addition to these measures, cities are also taking targeted action by banning certain vehicles from their roads. Many cities restrict or ban the most polluting vehicles, such as older cars and trucks, from entering specific areas, implementing what are known as ultra-low emission zones. For example, London's Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has been shown to significantly reduce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution. Similarly, the French capital has barred the most polluting vehicles from entering the city centre, which has contributed to improved air quality.

These strategies are often coupled with incentives to use sustainable and public transportation, such as free or discounted public transport, the development of cycling infrastructure, and the promotion of electric vehicles. For instance, the city of Copenhagen has introduced Green Wave technology, which coordinates traffic lights for cyclists, making cycling to work a quicker and more efficient option than driving.

Implementing ultra-low emissions zones

Implementing ultra-low emission zones

Ultra-low emission zones (ULEZ) are areas where only vehicles that meet low emission standards are allowed to enter. These zones are designed to reduce air pollution and improve air quality, particularly in cities where air pollution levels are often higher.

ULEZs typically involve charging a fee for vehicles that do not meet the specified emission standards. This discourages people from driving highly polluting vehicles into the zone and encourages them to switch to less-polluting alternatives. In some cases, non-compliant vehicles may be banned from entering the zone entirely.

Examples of ULEZs

• London, UK: London's ULEZ, which started in 2017 in central London and was later expanded to cover a wider area, has successfully reduced nitrogen dioxide levels from traffic by 46% in the designated zone. This has resulted in significant health benefits, including reduced hospital admissions for heart and circulatory problems.
• Paris, France: Paris has implemented a similar approach, barring the most polluting vehicles from entering the city centre and offering incentives for alternative modes of transportation, such as expanding its network of bike lanes. The city aims to become a "walkable city", where residents can meet their needs within a 15-minute stroll.
• Berlin, Germany: While specific details about Berlin's low-emission zones are not provided, it has been mentioned alongside London and Birmingham as a city that has reported reductions in air pollution due to the implementation of clean-air zones.
• Accra, Ghana: Accra has become the first African city to join the BreatheLife campaign, a joint initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Environment Programme, the World Bank, and the Climate & Clean Air Coalition. Through this campaign, Accra is taking action to improve its air quality and address the health concerns associated with air pollution.

Benefits of ULEZs

• Improved air quality: ULEZs help reduce air pollution by targeting highly polluting vehicles, particularly older diesel vehicles. This leads to lower emissions of harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
• Health benefits: Reducing air pollution has direct health benefits for residents, especially those with breathing and heart conditions. Studies have shown that ULEZs can lead to reduced hospital admissions, fewer deaths from heart attacks and strokes, and improved lung function.
• Economic advantages: While there may be concerns about the cost of implementing ULEZs, the health benefits can result in significant cost savings for healthcare systems. Additionally, proceeds from charges or fines for non-compliant vehicles can be used to fund local transport projects and improve overall infrastructure.

Challenges and considerations

• Social equity: There are concerns that ULEZ charges may unfairly penalise lower-income individuals who may not be able to afford the fees or the cost of upgrading to cleaner vehicles. However, data suggests that vehicle ownership and usage patterns among lower-income groups are often more complex, and grants and incentives can be provided to help with the transition to cleaner vehicles.
• Comprehensive approach: While ULEZs can be effective, they should be part of a wider strategy that includes other measures such as encouraging alternative modes of transportation, implementing stricter emissions standards, and reducing emissions from other sources such as agriculture and construction.

Encouraging the use of sustainable transport

One effective approach is to invest in public transportation systems and make them more affordable and accessible. Many cities have implemented schemes to restrict car parking and reduce speed limits, while also offering cheaper or free public transport and cycle hire. For example, London's Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has been shown to reduce nitrogen dioxide levels by 44% and particulate matter by 27%.

Another strategy is to promote active travel, such as walking and cycling, by developing dedicated infrastructure. The city of Copenhagen, for instance, introduced Green Wave technology, which coordinates traffic lights for cyclists, making cycling to work a quick and efficient alternative to driving. The city has also implemented safety standards such as a 3-second advance on green lights for cyclists compared to cars, dedicated cycle paths, and wider cycle tracks.

In addition to public transport and active travel, cities can also incentivize the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and carpooling or ride-sharing initiatives. The adoption of EVs can be encouraged by offering financial incentives and developing the necessary charging infrastructure. Carpooling and ride-sharing reduce the number of vehicles on the road, thereby lowering emissions and improving air quality.

By implementing these measures, cities can significantly reduce pollution levels and create a healthier environment for their residents.

Improving industrial emission controls

Cities are implementing a range of measures to reduce air pollution from industrial sources. This includes improving industrial emission controls to minimize the release of hazardous pollutants into the atmosphere. Here are some ways that cities are improving industrial emission controls:

Implementing Regulations and Standards

Many cities are enforcing stringent regulations and standards to limit toxic emissions from industrial facilities. For example, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued the Clean Air Act, which mandates the reduction of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) from major industrial sources. The EPA sets Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) standards based on the best-performing industries within each industry group. These standards are regularly reviewed and revised to incorporate advancements in air pollution control technologies.

Promoting Cleaner Technologies and Processes

Cities are encouraging industries to adopt cleaner technologies and processes that reduce emissions at the source. This includes the use of advanced pollution control equipment, such as mechanical collectors, wet scrubbers, fabric filters, and electrostatic precipitators. By investing in these technologies, industries can effectively capture, contain, or reduce harmful pollutants before they are released into the atmosphere.

Reducing Toxic Emissions from Industrial Sources

A key focus of improving industrial emission controls is reducing toxic emissions from industrial facilities. This involves setting specific targets and implementing measures to minimize the release of harmful substances. For instance, the EPA has successfully reduced emissions of air toxics from more than 174 categories of major industrial sources, including chemical plants, oil refineries, and steel mills. These efforts have significantly improved air quality and protected the health of citizens.

Collaborating with Industries

Cities are engaging in collaborations with industries to develop and implement effective emission control strategies. By working together, cities and industries can identify specific pollution sources, assess the impact of emissions, and co-create solutions that align with local regulations and sustainable practices. This collaborative approach ensures that industries are held accountable and actively contribute to improving air quality.

Providing Incentives and Support

To encourage industries to improve their emission controls, cities are offering incentives and support programs. These may include financial incentives, such as emissions trading or subsidies for adopting cleaner technologies. Additionally, cities are providing guidance and resources to help industries transition to more sustainable practices. By offering both carrots and sticks, cities are motivating industries to take proactive measures to reduce air pollution.

By implementing these strategies, cities are making significant strides in improving industrial emission controls and reducing the impact of industrial activities on air quality. These efforts contribute to creating healthier and more sustainable urban environments for residents and future generations.

Developing green spaces

One of the primary ways that green spaces reduce air pollution is by absorbing and filtering airborne pollutants. Vegetation acts as a natural filter, trapping particulate matter and other harmful pollutants, improving air quality. This was demonstrated in a study that found urban forests and green spaces could reduce air pollution by creating "oases" or "buffers" of cleaner air within cities. Additionally, trees and plants can reduce the demand for air conditioning by providing shade, which in turn lowers energy consumption and associated emissions.

Green spaces also encourage behavioural changes that reduce air pollution. They promote active transportation, such as walking and cycling, by providing attractive and safe routes. This not only reduces vehicle emissions but also offers health benefits to the individuals opting for these transportation methods. Research has shown that spending time in nature improves physical and mental health, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being. Green spaces provide opportunities for physical activity and social interaction, which can lead to improved health outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged communities, children, older adults, and individuals with mental health issues.

Furthermore, green spaces can help mitigate the impacts of climate change, which is closely linked to air pollution. They can reduce temperatures in cities by countering the urban heat island effect, thereby decreasing the reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems. Additionally, green spaces can reduce the risk of flooding by increasing water retention and infiltration during heavy rainfall.

To maximise the benefits of developing green spaces, cities should focus on accessibility, attractiveness, and maintenance. Well-designed green spaces with walking paths, shade, water features, and playgrounds are more likely to be utilised by residents. It is also essential to involve the community in the planning and maintenance of these spaces to ensure they meet the needs and preferences of diverse user groups.

By investing in green spaces, cities can create a "triple win" of improved environmental sustainability, enhanced public health, and reduced health inequalities. This approach not only reduces air pollution but also fosters a healthier and more resilient urban environment for all residents.

Frequently asked questions