Air quality has rapidly risen up the Government’s public health agenda. Poor air quality is reported to be the biggest environmental threat to health in the UK, with between 28,000 and 36,000 deaths a year attributed to long-term exposure. Cities across the UK with the worst levels of air pollution have been instructed to take action by introducing measures such as Clean Air Zones.
Latest BVRLA Activity - Q2 2021
- CAZ concerns - Met with DfT Minister Rachel Maclean and DEFRA Minister Rebecca Pow to highlight concerns about the Governments Clean Air Zone payment portal and the burden on many fleets, as well as promote the positive role of rental and leasing to help people switch to cleaner transport
- Engagement with JAQU - The BVRLA is a recognised key stakeholder at regular fleet forums which provide the opportunity to highlight areas of concern and to push for further support where necessary
- CAZ implementation - As a result of ongoing engagement with the Joint Air Quality Unit warning letters have now been updated to offer further guidance to businesses
- Member support - The BVRLA has updated is CAZ map, timeline and developed a toolkit to support members and their customers prepare for the introduction of Clean Air Zones
Businesses and individuals need to prepare now for when the Clean Air Zones begin operating in 2021. Commercial vehicle operators will be hardest hit by the need to upgrade fleets due to the costs and lifespans of their vehicles. Vehicle rental, leasing and car clubs offer an affordable option for those seeking to upgrade to the newest, greenest and cleanest vehicles.
Where a Clean Air Zone is required local decision makers must make sure air quality policies are pragmatic, workable and that businesses and individuals are properly supported. Equally, Zero Emission Zone ambitions must not outpace the availability of zero emission vehicles.
The BVRLA's work in this field focuses on two main aims:
1. Support businesses and individuals in upgrading to Clean Air Zone compliant vehicles
2. Stay informed on local air quality initiatives and reduce the administrative burden of compliance
