Statistics released by the government this week show that emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) fell by 10% in 2016 compared to 2015, and by almost a quarter (23%) between 2012 and 2016.

According to the Government, the main reason for this decrease has been the closure of a number of coal-fired power stations.

The figures show an increase in the share of NOx coming from road transport, from 34% in 2015 to 49% in 2016.

ClientEarth senior campaigner Andrea Lee said: “The reduction in emissions is good news but it fails to tell the whole story.

“Concentrations of nitrogen dioxide are still at illegal and harmful levels in our towns and cities, where the majority of people are exposed to it.

“The Government needs to focus on urgently tackling illegal levels of air pollution with policies like clean air zones, targeted diesel scrappage schemes and other initiatives designed to help people move to cleaner forms of transport.”

To find out more about lower emission car rental, visit www.greenmotion.com.