London and Paris have been jointly awarded the 2008 Sustainable Transport Award by the US-based Institute for Transportation and Development Policy in recognition of the congestion charge and its commitment to environmental-friendly transport initiatives.
the capital was praised for an increase in bus and bicycle use, bus rider ship has increased by 45 per cent, and cycling by 43 per cent in the congestion charge zone, and 83 per cent across London according to GLA figures.
Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, said: “This award recognises London’s leading role in taking decisive action to reduce traffic congestion and improve the environment. We have no intention of resting on our laurels.”
“We will be making the whole of Greater London a Clean Air – Low Emission Zone from 4 February, effectively banning the most polluting lorries from our roads. We are also considering proposals to require vehicles with the highest greenhouse gas emissions to pay more, while exempting the least polluting cars.”
“Cities are responsible for over three quarters of greenhouse gas emissions, so the battle to prevent climate change will be won or lost in cities.”
Peter Hendy, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “London has made great progress in reducing car use and promoting sustainable transport. London has seen a five per cent shift away from the car to public transport, walking and cycling.”
“The congestion charge remains a ground breaking scheme and TfL is continuing to advise many world cities on how to tackle congestion, improve public transport, and introduce sustainable transport solutions for growing cities.”
