Reducing harmful vehicle emissions from road transport

We commissioned Covec to prepare a study that identified options, other than implementing vehicle emissions standards when vehicles enter the fleet, to address harmful emissions from vehicles already on the road in New Zealand, particularly in Auckland.

We commissioned Covec to prepare a study that identified options, other than implementing vehicle emissions standards when vehicles enter the fleet, to address harmful emissions from vehicles already on the road in New Zealand, particularly in Auckland.

The research process

The research identified and then examined a large number of policy options put in place overseas, including where studies had been published showing the costs and the effects of policy options. The options looked at included introducing localised emission standards, emission charges, low emission zones, road pricing, emissions testing, fuel switching and increases in fuel and road user charges. The report then presented a detailed analysis of options shown to be effective in other countries and that can be applied to a specific region, Auckland in this case. The options considered in detail were Low Emission Zones, regional emissions testing and road pricing. The study included a detailed cost benefit analysis of each of the selected options. 

The research concluded that none of the options considered could guarantee cost effective reductions in emissions. We did not recommend any of the options for further consideration by Government at that time.