London wins sustainable transport award

London and Paris have been announced joint winners at the Institute for Transportation and Developmental Policy (ITDP) 2008 Sustainable Transport Award Ceremony.

London edged out Guatemala, Oregon and Colombia to win the 2008 Sustainable Transport Award.

The city is the largest to adopt the congestion charge and its success has inspired cities in the USA, such as New York City and San Francisco, to consider implementing it. Prior to the charge, London drivers spent 50% of their time in traffic jams, costing the city between 2-4 million pounds every week. Now, Transport for London (TfL) said congestion has dropped 21% in 2007.

London Mayor Ken Livingstone said on the BBC website: "This award recognises London's leading role in taking decisive action to reduce traffic congestion and improve the environment. We will be making the whole of Greater London a Clean Air - Low Emission Zone from 4th February, effectively banning the most polluting lorries from our roads"

The ITDP also praised London for its public transport improvements, which has seen increases in bus transportation and cycling, boosting the environmental benefits.

Peter Hendy, London's Transport Commissioner, commented on the BBC website: "London has seen a five per cent shift away from the car to public transport, walking and cycling. TfL is continuing to advise many world cities on how to tackle congestion, improve public transport, and introduce sustainable transport solutions for growing cities."