Wowza — NYC Congestion Pricing Cut Pollution 22% In Just 6 Months! - CleanTechnica

New York City implemented congestion pricing on January 5, 2025, aiming to reduce pollution by charging vehicles entering the Congestion Relief Zone (CRZ) in Manhattan below 60th Street. Data from 42 air quality monitors showed a significant 22% reduction in PM2.5 pollution within just six months. Specifically, average daily peak PM2.5 concentrations dropped by 3.05 µg/m³ inside the zone, where background levels typically range from 8-9 µg/m³. Importantly, pollution also decreased citywide by 1.07 µg/m³ and by 0.70 µg/m³ across the broader metropolitan area, countering concerns that traffic and pollution would simply shift to neighboring areas. The effectiveness of the CRZ improved over time as drivers adapted by switching to public transit, rescheduling trips, or taking alternative routes. Vehicle traffic declined by 11% overall, with heavy-duty truck traffic dropping 18% and passenger vehicles down