UK clean air strategy to target tire particles emissions

London – The UK government is targeting particulate matters (PM) emissions from vehicles, including tires, under its Clean Air Strategy 2018.

Unveiled on 22 May, as part of the Westminster government’s 25-year environment plan, the new strategy is currently under consultation until mid-August.

According to the strategy, 12% of UK primary PM emissions come from road transport, including fuel related emissions and tire and brake wear.

“Much of our focus has been on the reduction of emissions from vehicle exhausts but friction during driving also generates fine particles from brakes, tires and the road surface,” it said.

The UK, it added, is investing £200,000 in research at the University of Plymouth to improve scientific understanding of how particles from car tire friction on roads make their way into the sea through sewers.