Councils in London are still operating diesel-heavy fleet vehicles, including bin wagons, maintenance vans and highways transport, according to data compiled in a Freedom of Information request.
Of the councils that responded, 71% confirmed that diesel made up the majority of their fleet.
Impact on Urban Health (IUH) estimated that 5,000 diesel vehicles on the capital’s roads are part of council fleets and electric vehicles made up just over a fifth (21%).
It said the picture varied dramatically by borough, with Hillingdon sitting at the bottom of the table with 97% of its fleet diesel-powered.
Richmond upon Thames fared little better, with 96% and Bexley was on 95%.
However, some councils have demonstrated the transition was possible; Lewisham has almost completed the shift, running 285 EVs and only four diesel vehicles.
Westminster has just two diesel vehicles left and Hammersmith and Fulham were operating 88% electric and hybrid.
Ben Pearce, IUH head of the health effects of air pollution programme, said: “The air we breathe shapes our health. In too many London neighbourhoods, that air is dangerously polluted, and diesel vehicles are a major contributor.
“London’s councils are on the front line of delivering cleaner, healthier neighbourhoods, but too many are still operating fleets that add to the problem rather than help solve it.
“We recognise the financial and logistical pressures local authorities face, but the health consequences of inaction are stark. Public bodies should be leading this shift, not making matters worse.”
London Councils was approached for comment.
IUH is a part of Guy’s & St Thomas’ Foundation, a charitable foundation.
