Trial begins in London to tackle air pollution

Date: 12/11/2010

A bid to reduce air pollution caused by engine emissions has begun in London with a trial of dust suppressants.

Transport for London started the test today (November 12th) at two sites identified to have particularly high levels of particulate matter (PM10), which is produced by engines as well as tyre and brake wear and can exacerbate respiratory conditions in the elderly and the very young.

The assessment will take six months and aims to reduce PM10 by between ten and 20 per cent.

London Mayor Boris Johnson said: "We expect this new measure to have an immediate impact on air quality in the most polluted areas of central London."

He added more long-term environmental solutions are also progressing well, such as a new electric vehicle scheme that is due to be launched in spring 2011.

Mr Johnson announced details of the city-wide initiative, Source London, earlier this month, which will deliver 1,300 electric car charging points by 2013.

Posted by Nick Anderson