Facts about Nitrogen Dioxide Pollution from Diesel engines in the UK

Let’s talk UK diesel NOx.  Are you aware of the harmful effects of diesel engines on our environment? Diesel engines are notorious for releasing toxic nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Especially which contribute to air pollution and respiratory diseases. The United Kingdom has recently been in the spotlight for its alarming levels of NOx pollution. Thereby caused by diesel engines.

In this article, we will explore the facts and figures behind the UK’s diesel NOx problem. Also, the impact it has on the environment and public health. We’ll also take a look at the measures being taken by the government and other organizations to tackle this issue. So, if you’re curious about the damaging effects of diesel engines on our planet, keep reading. I mean  discover what you can do to help reduce pollution levels in your own community.

Well holy diesel UK NOx boss.

We have to talk and I mean now. So, you may have heard about the UK Diesel NOX Government’s issues. For recently they published proposals for tackling UK diesel NOx pollution from engines.

There’s a lot of conflicting information around about how diesel UK NOx pollution impacts health. Also the ongoing problem with air quality in the UK. Finally and the Governments plans.

The ‘Toxin Tax’: At a Glance

The UK government has been ordered by the UK courts (twice) and the European Commission (EC) to reduce Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) levels in the air. 

1. The EC has sent a final warning to UK diesel NOx folks. That’s for repeated breaches of legal air pollution limits in 16 areas.
2. In 2016, 4 in 10 local authorities were horrid. For they also breached legal NO₂ levels. 
3. High levels of UK Diesel NOx are attributable to 23,500 premature deaths in the UK each year.
4. NOx is known to cause (or exacerbate) respiratory diseases including asthma and bronchitis.
5. Diesel engines are the primary source of NO₂ pollution. Thereby producing four times more NO₂ than petrol engines
6. Particles from diesel engines have also been linked to heart disease and strokes.
7. 39% of cars on the road in the UK run on diesel.

UK Remove Diesel NOx with Clean Air Zones, Toxin Taxes

This is why the UK government is set to introduce ‘clean air zones’ and ‘toxin taxes’. That’s specifically for diesel cars in major cities from 2019.  These charges could also affect up to 10 million diesel cars in the UK.

When combined with congestion charge, this could make the cost of driving a diesel car in central London £24 per day

A scrappage scheme may see diesel car owners offered up to £2,000 to switch to other fuel sources

Why Are UK Diesel Cars Under Scrutiny for NOx?

For the UK has a big problem with air pollution.  In February of this year, the European Commission delivered a ‘final warning’ to the UK government. Especially over its failure to comply with EU air pollution limits for Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂).

16 areas of the UK – including major cities such as London, Glasgow, and Cardiff. For they are also found to have been repeatedly breaching legal limits.

Here is an infographic explaining in further detail.