London wins top international award for congestion chargeThe Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, today welcomed the news that London has won a prestigious international award in recognition of the congestion charge and its commitment to ‘green’ transport initiatives.
The US-based Institute for Transportation and Development Policy has chosen London as the recipient of the 2008 Sustainable Transport Award saying that under the Mayor’s leadership the capital’s congestion charge has become ‘model for the world’ which has delivered a 21 per cent fall in traffic. London was praised for the increase in bus and bicycle use in the capital. 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.
The award was given jointly to London and Paris. The award selection panel includes respected experts and organisations working internationally on sustainable transport. It includes representatives from the Institute of Transportation and Development Policy, Environmental Defense and the United Nations’ Centre for Regional Development.
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.’
To access the original article, click on the link below: