The Royal Borough of Greenwich has launched an ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme in a bid to improve air quality on local roads.

The new scheme will cover the areas of Greenwich, Woolwich, Charlton, Plumstead and Blackheath.

It comes after Greater Manchester and Staffordshire and Stoke launched ECO Stars schemes.

Fleets are assessed free-of-charge by ECO Stars with a star rating awarded based on current performance, alongside a roadmap of recommendations to help them drive down emissions and reduce operating costs.

Councillor Danny Thorpe (pictured centre), cabinet member for regeneration and transport, at Greenwich council, welcomed new members to the scheme earlier this month, including the council's own Fleet Services division, DHL and the University of Greenwich.

“I am delighted that the Royal Borough of Greenwich is hosting today’s launch which marks a new chapter for both us and our partners in working to improve the borough’s air quality.

"I am looking forward to seeing how we take our roadmaps forward and all aim for a 5 star rating so that we can run cleaner, safer and greener fleets,” he said.

ECO Stars is managed by transport consultant Transport & Travel Research. Set up in 2009, there are now 21 schemes running in the UK.