health

Deaths linked to London air pollution have fallen 40%, study estimates

However, Imperial College team also find that pollution has worse health impact than previously understood

Deaths linked to London air pollution have fallen 40%, study estimates

TL;DR

  • Deaths linked to air pollution in London have fallen by an estimated 40% between 2019 and 2024.
  • Toxic air pollution levels in London have reduced, with nitrogen dioxide down 41% and fine particulate pollution down 28%.
  • Updated scientific evidence indicates a greater impact of air pollution on health than previously understood.
  • Premature deaths attributed to air pollution in 2019 were revised upwards, with a subsequent fall by 2024.
  • Boroughs in outer London have the highest ratio of deaths attributable to air pollution.
  • Mayor Sadiq Khan attributes the improvements to policies like the ultra-low emission zone (Ulez).