GLASWEGIANS are being encouraged to support the development of low emissions zones (LEZ) in the city despite the financial impact on drivers.

The LEZ came into effect in December 2018 but only applies to local service buses. By December 2022 it will be fully implemented and all vehicles entering the zone will have to meet specific exhaust emissions standards.

Research shows that in London's congestion charge zone, carbon monoxide levels have decreased by 62 per cent since 2002.

Nitrogen Dioxide levels have decreased by 24 per cent and Sulphur Dioxide levels by 60 per cent.

READ MORE: Glasgow bus operators reach low emissions milestone

Mark Tongue, director of Select Car Leasing, said: "Between 2018 and 2019 the air quality on Glasgow’s most polluted street, Hope Street, continued to get worse. The total pollution in the area was rated as 50 per cent higher than the legal limit.

"However, in late 2018, Glasgow took steps to improve their air quality by introducing the LEZ in the city centre.

"The research we conducted shows that although LEZ’s tend to gain a negative press due to their financial implications for the public, evidence is in place to suggest they work.

"It can take time to see an improvement in air quality as the benefits of the LEZ begin to take effect, but it’s clear there is a drastic improvement in the levels of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and other harmful pollutants in the years following LEZ introduction.

READ MORE: Glasgow's low emission zone praised for 'real changes' in first year​

"LEZ’s are essential not only for Glasgow, but other major cities in Scotland and the rest of the UK to improve the air quality of our busy cities.

"They will also make regular commuters in that area more likely to opt for an electric car as they are exempt from congestion charges, which in turn is better for the environment. “

"LEZ’s are essential not only for Glasgow, but other major cities in Scotland to improve the air quality of our busy cities."