Evidence request: reducing the impact of buses on air quality

While air quality has improved in recent years, current levels of air pollution remain harmful to health in some locations, and road transport is known to be a significant contributor. The coalition programme for government states that the government will work towards full compliance with European air quality standards.

On 21 February 2011 the Department for Transport issued evidence requests on how emissions of harmful air pollutants from heavy goods vehicles and buses could be best reduced. The evidence requests closed on 21 April. This document summarises the responses received.

The department is keen to gather views from operators on how emissions of harmful air pollutants from buses could be best reduced. We are seeking as much data and real evidence as possible, on potential actions to improve air quality cost-effectively. We are sending a similar request to heavy goods vehicles operators.

Responses to this document will help inform the government’s approach to improving compliance with European standards, while it seeks to promote industry-led initiatives and build on best practice to prevent the need for future regulation.