Lewisham council unveils fleet of low-emission recycling trucks

By Grainne Cuffe, Local Democracy Reporter

Lewisham council has introduced a new fleet of less polluting recycling trucks which will comply with the expanded London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

The 25 replacement trucks emit 50 per cent less nitrogen oxide, a pollutant which causes a range of harmful effects on the lungs. Long-term exposure can cause chronic lung disease.

The trucks are compliant with the latest emissions standard (Euro 6) and have replaced the old Euro 5 compliant vehicles.

The new fleet will comply with the ULEZ, which is set to expand from central London in October to include a large part of Lewisham.

Drivers must pay a daily charge to drive within the zone if their vehicles do not meet ULEZ emissions standards.

Councillor Sophie Mc Geevor, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “Despite the year we have just had, we’re delighted that Lewisham council’s recycling efforts remain consistent and the level of contamination has not increased – this is a huge credit to the residents of Lewisham for recycling properly.

“This new fleet of trucks is fully compliant with London’s new ULEZ and will help contribute to the reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions in the borough.”

Lewisham is planning significant changes to its environmental services in the coming years.

The council is developing a new waste strategy aimed at reduction, reuse, and recycling, with the hope of cutting £250,000 from its budget in 2023/24.

It is planning to crack down on fly-tipping, littering and urinating outside in a bid to raise money and keep streets clean.

The plan forms part of the council’s draft budget cuts and aims to save £100,000 next year.

As part of the proposal, extra enforcement officers are set to patrol the streets and slap offenders with fines of up to £400.

Pictured top: One of the 25 new trucks