Glasgow's Low Emission Zone

That the Parliament notes that the first phase of the Low Emission Zone began in 2018 for buses in the city centre of Glasgow; understands that, since then, there has been a reduction in air pollution levels, particularly in some of Glasgow’s most polluted streets; recognises what it sees as the importance of action on emissions to protect people with conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but believes that any action must be part of a suite of measures to improve air quality in city centres across Scotland; understands that surveying by Asthma + Lung UK Scotland found that 63% of people in Glasgow who are living with a lung condition said that air pollution is a trigger for their condition; believes that action on emissions and climate change must not entrench inequality; recognises reported concerns raised by taxi drivers, who believe that they will have to leave the trade because of insufficient resources to meet the standards; appreciates the reported concerns of disabled people and women who rely on taxis in the absence of fully accessible and affordable public transport; is concerned that charities, carers and healthcare staff that need access to the city to provide care are, it understands, not exempt, and considers that Glasgow City Council should consider further exemptions and financial support to ensure that everyone who needs to can comply.