So three out of four Londoners oppose the proposed rise in the congestion charge. Hardly surprising, given it was a poll commissioned by Porsche.
Be more like Ken
So three out of four Londoners oppose the proposed rise in the congestion charge. Hardly surprising, given it was a poll commissioned by Porsche.
Since three-quarters of Londoners do not drive around in gas-guzzlers, the proposal to hit drivers of vehicles emitting more than 225g of CO2 per kilometre with a charge of £25 per day is hardly likely to affect most pockets. In fact, if implemented, quite the reverse, as on the flip side of the coin low-emitting vehicles, those producing 120g/km or less, will be able to enter the capital free.
Guess what, most urban dwellers, opt for smaller cars these days! And Londoners would benefit from cleaner air if some of these gas-guzzling vehicles were driven off the capital’s streets.
In fact, the Mayor of London’s office has advised that 80 per cent of vehicles within the congestion charge zone would be unaffected by the changes which are due to come into effect on October 27.
Where does 80% square up with 75%? Bias or what!
Talking of the environment, a recent study indicates most companies’ green fleet policies are aimed at improving their corporate image rather than actually reducing their all-important carbon footprint.
Six out of 10 agreed that image was the main driving force with nearly half also advising it was to reduce cost.
Our friend Nigel Underdown at the Energy Saving Trust is quoted as saying there is a very strong business case for an environmental fleet policy in terms of cost and image. Indeed, like Ken Livingstone, we need to see more companies walk the talk.