Electric van scheme aims to cut pollution

By Jacqueline Shepherd

The UKs first electric van share scheme for businesses launched last week.

The programme aims to cut pollution in the capital by getting businesses to scrap their vehicles in favour of electric vans.

Electric Van is aptly based near Brixton’s Electric Avenue, and the result of a collaboration between Lambeth council, Brixton BID, Zipcar for Business and Cross River Partnership’s Clean Air Villages Programme.

Brixton BID managing director Michael Smith said: “Local businesses can now actively address clean air and carbon footprint issues whilst making savings.”

Brixton Road is considered one of the most polluted in the UK, and an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was introduced in April 2019.

The scheme will enable businesses in the area to continue to operate in the ULEZ and slash the number of vans on the road and parking spaces needed.

Susannah Wilks, director of Cross River Partnership, said: “We strongly believe in the need for improved air quality in London. We’re not there yet, and we all have a part to play.”

Any Brixton based small business can apply to be part of the scheme by completing a hire agreement with Cross River Partnership and by clicking here.