urbanism

Forget ULEZ cameras, this new tech detects individual car exhaust pollution in real time
July 16, 2024

Following in the footsteps of roadside cameras that detect speeding, mobile phone use and non-compliance of clean air zones such as London's ULEZ, comes tech that detects pollution from individual vehicles in real time. The Emission Detection and Reporting (EDAR) system uses a laser to detect harmful gases from moving vehicles. EDAR can...

If you thought Brexit was taboo in British politics, wait until you hear about road pricing
July 10, 2024

In the landscape of British politics, some topics it seems are off limits for open discussion. Brexit is one example. Road pricing is another peculiar taboo. Despite an increasing acknowledgment across political lines of the need for road pricing to address congestion, and tax-loss following widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption,...

Let it rain; the umbrella that promises blue skies
December 28, 2023

However you travel, what better way of sheltering from blustery conditions than an umbrella emblazoned with a promise of blue skies? The umbrella is standard...

Cycle to Work scheme; a safer bet than Santa
December 13, 2023

There's no doubt about it; Santa discriminates against grown-ups. By the time you've entered the world of work, it doesn't matter how many letters you write, or how well you behave; it's unlikely you'll be surprised by a bicycle under the tree. Luckily, there's a more dependable way to treat yourself to the bike of your dreams. The Cycle to...

Should we pay commuters to cycle to work?
December 12, 2023

If you're lucky enough to cycle as part of your work, your employer can pay you a tax-free mileage allowance of up to 20p per mile. Unfortunately, the commuting journeys between your home and permanent workplace don't qualify. However, one of our nearest neighbours permits commuters to claim an allowance for cycling to and from work every...