The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has called on the UK government to help it to tackle air pollution.

Outlining its strategy in response to the government’s ‘Air Quality Plan’, the BVRLA said a combination of incentives and restrictions should be created to encourage more sustainable travel behaviour.

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Gerry Keaney, chief executive of the BVRLA, said: “BVRLA members fully appreciate the urgent need to address air pollution in the UK, which requires a change in the way we travel and the vehicles we use.”

The BVRLA warned however that people must not be punished for decisions they made regarding transport based on previous government policy.

The BVLRA called for a variety of measures including a comprehensive set of guidelines for Clean Air Zones, for the government to work with the BVRLA to promote leasing and car clubs, and legislating to ensure all Euro-6 compliant vehicles are not subject to additional charges.

In addition, the BVRLA renewed its calls for a diesel scrappage scheme, and demanded that it be flexible and targeted, and provide support for companies to retrofit older, more polluting vehicles.
It also suggested offering ‘mobility vouchers’ to be used for car rental, car clubs, and other forms of shared and public transport.

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The BVRLA urged the government to continue funding and supporting plug-in grants for cars and vehicles, and adjust the CO2 and zero emission range requirements as technology advances. It also said the government must ensure a consistent tax policy to support uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles.

Keaney added: “Our sector has enormous buying power and provides advice to thousands and thousands of drivers and fleet operators. If the Government can deliver the right tax regime, incentives and guidance, we can have a huge impact in improving air quality across the country.”