What is being done to improve Motorway Air Quality
Air quality is a major cause for concern in the UK, especially when it comes to motorways and the surrounding areas.
Vehicle emissions cause air pollution, including the release of NO2 into the atmosphere which can pose a threat to both health and the environment.
The shift to EVs is a long-term solution, but what is being done to address the situation in the short term?
Encouraging the Switch to EVs
EVs are viewed as a long-term solution to the air pollution problem in the UK but can also be a short-term solution with more and more people switching. The government is encouraging motorists to make the switch to vehicles like the Vauxhall Corsa-e, which produce zero emissions.
This is through the use of grants and free testing opportunities, plus the 2030 ban on the sale of petrol and diesel.
Additionally, the introduction of clean air zones is seeing more motorists make the switch.
Managing Speed
Another way that air quality is being improved around motorways is by managing the speed of drivers.
Traffic and air quality monitoring show that NO2 production is reduced when traffic speed is reduced by 10%, which has resulted in the introduction of 60mph speed limits on short sections of the motorway on a trial basis.
These limits will stay in place until there is a greater uptake of EVs to improve the air quality.
Traffic Management
Traffic management is also key so that vehicles are spending less time on the motorways. There are many traffic management measures, including diversions, signal timing, installing new traffic lights, adding speed cameras, and improving bus and cycle lanes to reduce local traffic.
All of these measures can help to reduce air pollution while also making motorway driving a smoother experience for motorists.
Air Quality Barriers
An interesting solution that has been developed by researchers at Imperial is a curved barrier that can deflect air pollution away from pedestrians. Air pollution health concerns are more significant among lower-income communities, who are more likely to live by motorways and heavy traffic areas. These barriers could play an important role in improving air quality in these communities and protecting the health and well-being of those living there, especially children.
In addition to the curved barrier developed by researchers at Imperial, several other measures are being taken to improve air quality and enhance air quality monitoring. For example, low-emission zones and vehicle restrictions in urban areas are being implemented to reduce the number of high-polluting vehicles on the roads. Cities are also investing in green infrastructure, such as urban forests and green walls, which can naturally filter pollutants from the air.
Moreover, indoor, industrial air quality monitoring is gaining attention. Advanced air quality sensors and systems, such as the HALO Smart Sensor, are being deployed to monitor and manage air quality inside buildings. Modern sensors offer real-time monitoring of pollutants and environmental conditions, providing valuable data to ensure healthier indoor environments.
These combined efforts—both outdoor and indoor—are crucial in addressing air pollution health concerns, particularly in lower-income communities that are disproportionately affected by poor air quality. By implementing these solutions, we can better protect the health and well-being of vulnerable populations, especially children, who are most at risk.
