Scottish taxis hit the environment hard: NOx emissions 84% ​​higher than cars
CO2
GGH

Scottish taxis hit the environment hard: NOx emissions 84% ​​higher than cars

A new study has found that Scottish taxis emit significantly more nitrogen oxides (NOx) than passenger cars, at 84%. The worrying finding highlights the environmental problems associated with urban transport and calls into question the sustainability of existing pollution control standards. As taxis continue to play a vital role in public transport, their impact on air quality is becoming an increasingly pressing topic of discussion among environmentalists and urban planners.

TRUE study: Scottish taxis and rental cars emit significantly more emissions than cars

Taxis, which are used extensively in cities, are significant sources of polluting emissions, according to a three-year study covering 1.4 million vehicle emissions measurements in Scotland by The Real Urban Emissions (TRUE). The report, Real Vehicle Emissions in Four Major Scottish Cities: A Comprehensive Analysis of Remote Sensing Data 2021–2023, collected and analyzed real emissions data from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen.

The study found that diesel taxis and private hire cars emit significantly more nitrogen oxide (NOx) than passenger cars, due to their emission control systems wearing out faster due to high levels of use. Taxis registered between 2009 and 2016 produced 84% more NOx emissions than passenger cars of the same age. In the cities of Dundee and Edinburgh, average emissions from taxis and private hire cars increased despite fleets being updated with new models, confirming this trend. In addition, some older diesel taxis fitted with DPFs showed levels of particulate matter (PM) emissions that suggested the filters had either been removed entirely or were in a critically poor condition.

New diesel and petrol models from Scotland’s passenger cars show significant improvements in real-world nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, driven by the introduction of stricter exhaust emissions standards across Europe. For example, the latest Euro 6d models emit 95% less NOx than Euro 3. Three-year tests have shown a 7% annual reduction in NOx emissions from private passenger cars, driven by the natural replacement of older cars with newer ones. However, some of the latest models (Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d) still exceed road-going emissions (RDE) limits, with the worst offenders emitting more than twice the legal limit.

The report notes that Euro V trucks, which are among the oldest in the fleet, are subject to significant emissions increases over time. These vehicles are often found to have faulty or modified emission control systems, highlighting the need to identify these trucks and remove them from service. The document makes a number of recommendations based on the research, including:

  • Introduce mandatory NOx emissions testing as part of annual national vehicle inspections to enable early detection of major polluters.
  • Local authorities impose mileage or age restrictions on taxis and rental cars.
  • Taking measures to accelerate the renewal of the vehicle fleet and the transition to zero-emission transport.

Scotland rethinks transport habits as new data highlights need for greener alternatives

Derek McCreadie, Senior Air Quality Adviser at Transport Scotland, said: “Remote sensing technology provides accurate data on the actual emissions of diesel and petrol vehicles in urban environments. It helps to identify deviations from the standard standards and limits set for different vehicle types. The introduction of low emission zones in four major cities allows us to better assess the real levels of emissions and create effective strategies to improve air quality and the health of people in Scotland.”

Sheila Watson, deputy director of the FIA ​​Foundation and co-founder of the TRUE Initiative, expressed surprise: “It is striking that the most heavily used vehicles in Scottish cities are also the biggest polluters. Even with fleet renewal in Dundee and Edinburgh, emissions continue to rise. This clearly highlights the need to rethink how we travel in urban areas. Reducing reliance on cars and promoting public transport, walking and cycling are essential to protecting the environment and health.”

“A multi-year analysis of the study’s results gave us a more complete picture of the actual emission levels in the four cities,” said Kailin Li, a researcher at ICCT. “This allowed us to provide evidence-based recommendations that take into account gradual changes in vehicle fleets over several years, rather than relying on data collected at a single point in time.”

The aim of the Remote Air Monitoring Project was to create a database of actual vehicle emissions in Scotland and to develop recommendations for the further development of a remotely sensed air quality monitoring system in low emission zones. Transport Scotland commissioned a consortium comprising TRUE partners the International Council on Clean Transport, Hager Environmental & Atmospheric Technologies (HEAT) and Environmental Resources Management (ERM) to collect and analyze data on actual vehicle emissions from the Scottish vehicle fleet.

On the verge of extinction: how environmental initiatives save rare species of turtles
Initiatives
GGH

On the verge of extinction: how environmental initiatives save rare species of turtles

Saving rare species of turtles has become one of the most important environmental initiatives of recent years. These unique creatures, which have existed on Earth for more than 200 million years, are facing threats that could lead to their extinction. Environmentalists and conservation organizations around the world are working intensively to protect these animals and their habitats.

From Forests to Markets: Environmental Initiatives to Combat Turtle Threats and Successes in Protecting Them

The main threat to turtles is the destruction of their natural ecosystems. For example, forests, mangroves, and coral reefs where turtles live are subject to deforestation, pollution, and climate change. As a result, turtle populations are declining and their reproduction is becoming increasingly difficult. In response to this problem, environmental organizations are creating reserves and protected areas to preserve critical areas.

Smuggling and poaching are another major threat. Turtles are often caught in smugglers’ traps, their shells are used in ornamental products, and their eggs and meat are traded. In response, environmental groups are working to strengthen legislation and increase market controls to curb illegal trade. For example, international agreements such as the Convention on International Trade in Wildlife Species (CITES) help limit the trade in turtles.

An example of a successful initiative is the project to save green turtles on the Galapagos Islands. Thanks to the efforts of local and international ecologists, the number of these turtles has increased several times. The creation of artificial nests and animal rehabilitation programs have contributed to the improvement of their population.

The findings from these efforts show that a comprehensive approach to protecting turtles, including protecting their natural habitats, combating illegal hunting, and developing educational programs, can significantly improve their situation. It will take continued efforts and global cooperation to ensure the survival of these ancient creatures and their transmission to future generations.

What species of turtles are under threat?

Turtles, these ancient creatures that have survived many changes on the planet, today face serious threats. Of the 356 known species of turtles, a significant number are at risk of extinction, and several are particularly vulnerable.

  1. Giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea)

The Aldabra tortoise, native to the Indian Ocean island of Aldabra, is one of the largest land tortoises. Due to poaching and habitat destruction on individual islands, as well as climate change, the tortoise’s population has declined significantly. Today, they are protected in protected areas, but their numbers remain at risk.

  1. Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

This is the largest sea turtle known for its unique leathery shell. Leatherbacks suffer from ocean pollution, especially plastic waste, which they mistake for jellyfish. In addition, climate change and the destruction of nesting sites are also contributing to their decline.

  1. Radley Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

Renowned for its beautiful shell, the Radley turtle is threatened by the trade in shells used in decorative items. Illegal trade and habitat loss have left this species in serious danger of extinction. Global efforts to combat illegal trade and protect nesting sites are key to their conservation.

  1. Long-nosed turtle (Caretta caretta)

Also known as the great sea turtle, these turtles face threats from hunting, pollution, and loss of nesting sites. Protected marine parks and nest protection programs have helped improve their situation, but threats remain.

These turtle species highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to conservation. Anti-poaching, habitat conservation and global cooperation are critical to ensuring the future of these magnificent creatures.

Nature’s Scents and Our Health: How Scientists Are Studying the Impact of Natural Smells on Well-Being
News
GGH

Nature’s Scents and Our Health: How Scientists Are Studying the Impact of Natural Smells on Well-Being

In recent years, scientific research has increasingly focused on the impact of the environment on human health, and one of the most intriguing aspects of this study is the role of natural scents. Scientists have begun to explore how the scents of forests, the sea, and other natural landscapes can impact our physical and emotional well-being. These studies aim to uncover how natural scents can reduce stress, improve mood, and even have a positive impact on overall health. Understanding these interactions can open up new perspectives for creating wellness practices and improving quality of life through mindful interaction with nature.

Green Window to Recovery: How Nature Views Speed ​​Up Healing in Healthcare Facilities

A study has demonstrated the surprising effect nature has on the healing process of hospital patients. In the experiment, scientists compared the treatment results of two groups of patients who were in similar conditions, but with one difference: one group had the opportunity to see greenery and open spaces from their rooms, while the other group had a view of brick walls or empty courtyards.

The results of the study showed that patients whose windows overlooked nature recovered significantly faster. They demonstrated lower levels of stress and pain, and required fewer medications to relieve symptoms. Surprisingly, even short-term contact with the natural landscape contributed to a faster recovery and improved overall well-being.

This experiment highlighted the importance of visual and psychological interaction with nature for human well-being. It became the basis for further research aimed at integrating natural elements into medical institutions and creating more comfortable conditions for patients, which opened up new horizons in the approach to treatment and rehabilitation.

Nature’s Scent as Medicine: New Research Reveals Potential of Olfaction to Improve Quality of Life

Understanding how natural scents affect our health could not only improve our well-being, but also influence how we care for our planet, protect ecosystems, and design urban spaces, homes, and parks. While traditional research has focused primarily on the visual aspects of interacting with nature, such as enjoying green landscapes, much less attention has been paid to the role of the sense of smell. A group of researchers aims to change this approach by focusing on how the scents of nature affect our physical and emotional well-being. This new area of ​​research could pave the way for a deeper understanding of how scents can contribute to our health and well-being, as well as influence the future design of living spaces and conservation.

“Our environment is saturated with scents, and we have a sophisticated olfactory system that detects and interprets them, which in turn influences our mood and behavior,” explains Gregory Bratman, an associate professor of ecology and forestry at the University of Washington. “Yet, in contrast to the extensive research on the visual perception of nature, we know much less about how nature’s scents and olfactory cues affect us.”

Gregory Bratman points out that while the visual and emotional effects of nature are being studied extensively, the sense of smell remains less explored. “Smells play a key role in shaping our perception of the world around us and can have a significant impact on our psycho-emotional state,” he adds. Research shows that olfactory signals can trigger various emotional responses and even change cognitive processes.

Modern research is beginning to focus on the importance of olfactory perception, viewing it as a powerful tool in improving quality of life and well-being. For example, the smells of forests, fresh grass, or sea air can have a calming and restorative effect. This knowledge can be used to create more harmonious and supportive spaces in healthcare settings, urban areas, and residential areas.

As scientists continue to delve deeper into the study of olfactory perception, we are beginning to realize how important it is to incorporate the scents of nature into solutions aimed at improving overall well-being and creating healthier, more comfortable living conditions.

Gregory Bratman and his international colleagues are joining forces to study how odors and aromas from natural environments affect our health and well-being. This interdisciplinary team of specialists, including experts in olfaction, psychology, ecology, public health, atmospheric sciences and other fields, works in scientific institutions around the world, from the US and UK to Taiwan, Germany, Poland and Cyprus.