Breathing easier in London

摘要

The trouble with environmental improvements is that they come slowly and steadily so the achievement rarely gets the recognition it deserves.This was recently brought home by a visit to Cairo,where a half-hour taxi ride leaves one with stinging eyes and a tight chest.In comparison central London is like a walk in the country.However,even a decade ago,to have described central London as enjoying 'fresh air' would have called one's sanity(and senses)into question.That is the measure of the achievement in the UK,where ultra-low sulphur petrol and diesel,a largely new vehicle fleet,testing,regulation and control have combined to achieve truly spectacular air quality improvements.