One of the world's toughest vehicle emissions standards comes into force in London from today.
Drivers of older, more polluting cars will have to pay £12.50 (€14.50) every day they enter the centre of the capital.
Diesel cars must be less than roughly four years old to avoid the charge, while for petrol vehicles it's 13 years.
Transport for London says the 'Ultra Low Emission Zone' (ULEZ) will be in effect 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
It's hoped the new restrictions will reduce polluting emissions by 45%.
While currently focused on Central London, in October 2021 the zone will be extended to include a much larger area of the British capital.
Image: Transport for LondonOfficials have introduced the zone in response to what they say is a "public health crisis" in the city.
London mayor Sadiq Khan said the measures are needed to tackle air pollution.
He explained: "There are children in London who now have stunted, underdeveloped lungs directly because of the toxic air.
"There are adults with a whole range of health issues - from asthma to dementia to cancer and heart disease. Each day, there are four Londoners - one of whom is hospitalised - because of the toxic air."
London authorities dedicated tens of millions of pounds to diesel scrappage schemes ahead of the introduction of the new restrictions.
The ULEZ joins traffic measures already in effect in London, such as the congestion charge during peak weekday hours that was has been in place since 2003.
