How is climate change affecting London?
We’re seeing hotter, drier summers and wetter winters in London. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe, putting pressure on public health systems and infrastructure. At the same time, surface water flooding from heavy rainfall is increasingly common, especially in built-up areas with limited green space.
What action are you taking to address climate change?
I’m committed to making London a net-zero city by 2030, and I’ve launched a range of bold, city-wide initiatives to deliver on that goal through my ambitious Climate Action Plan - including tackling air pollution. When I first became Mayor, experts at King’s College London estimated it would take 193 years to bring our air quality within legal limits. We've achieved it this year. A major reason for this progress is the introduction of the world’s largest clean air zone: the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). It covers every borough of London and requires drivers of vehicles that don’t meet certain emission standards to pay a daily charge to drive in the zone.?This initiative has significantly reduced air pollution and carbon emissions by promoting cleaner, greener transport across the capital.
What are the benefits? Why is it important?
Since the introduction of the ULEZ, nitrogen dioxide levels in central London have halved and millions of Londoners are breathing cleaner air. It also supports a broader shift towards green and sustainable transport, with growing investment in active travel and zero-emission buses. Climate action in London is not just environmental. It’s a public health emergency and a social justice issue too.