Low Emission Zones (LEZs) are transforming the way goods move through cities. First introduced in London in 2008, they have since rapidly spread globally, with projections suggesting more than 500 zones will be in operation by the end of 2025. In these designated areas, vehicles must meet specific emissions standards to enter.

LEZs are part of a wider set of urban restrictions aimed at reducing air pollution, which poses a serious threat to human health. The International Council on Clean Transportation classifies them into five categories, ranging from basic restrictions on heavily polluting vehicles, to full Zero Emission Zones.

Since their introduction, studies show the zones have already contributed to measurable improvements in air quality, with steady declines in pollutant levels over the years. Despite progress, air pollution remains a significant challenge, and policies are likely to intensify if cities are to reach their ambitious 2030 net-zero emissions targets.

Vans and trucks, which are often criticised for pollution, congestion, and safety concerns, often face even tougher standards. For delivery companies and freight operators, LEZs create significant operational challenges.

How do LEZs impact operations?

LEZs introduce a series of operational hurdles in day-to-day logistics that directly impact efficiency and profitability across the supply chain. Delivery routes are increasingly fragmented, with trucks permitted in one zone but banned in the next. This complexity increases the risk of delays and, to avoid disruption, requires careful planning. The challenges intensify for companies managing international deliveries, where a single journey might have to navigate the requirements of multiple LEZs. Delays in deliveries can compromise freshness, disrupt retailers, and negatively impact customer satisfaction. Adapting to these operational realities is fundamental to doing business in modern cities.

Turning challenges into opportunities

While LEZs introduce obstacles, they also open doors for innovation and enhanced sustainability practices. Forward-thinking businesses can employ several strategies to adapt and thrive.

Fleet modernisation is perhaps the most effective response, with electrification at its core. Electric trucks and vans are gaining traction as they provide unrestricted access to cities, cut emissions and offer lower operating costs in the long run. Some UK retailers, including Tesco and Sainsbury’s, have already deployed electric delivery vehicles to comply with London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone.

Beyond compliance, electrification offers strategic advantages. Early adopters avoid penalties, secure reputational advantages as leaders in green logistics, and future-proof their operations against tightening regulations. Advances in battery technology are extending vehicle ranges, while the rollout of public and private charging infrastructure is reducing downtime and making large-scale deployment increasingly practical. For urban deliveries, where routes are short and predictable, electric fleets are especially well-suited.

Businesses seeking to transition their fleet should start by piloting a small number of vans, testing performance and schedules before scaling up. Charging should be approached with flexibility, exploring whether public networks, depot infrastructure upgrades, or a blend of both best supports operations. Government incentives, such as the Plug-in Van grant, can offset upfront costs, while long-term contracts between transport providers and distributors can provide the stability needed to invest in new technology, ensuring financially and operationally durable fleet upgrades.

Alongside the dominant solution of electrification, hydrogen is emerging as a complementary option, with several UK pilots showing how fuel cell vehicles can operate effectively in city environments. While at an early stage, hydrogen offers rapid refuelling and suitability for heavier loads, making it a promising pathway for flexibility alongside electric vehicles.

Operational adaptations can also play an important role. For example, off-hour deliveries allow businesses to bypass congestion and restrictions, taking advantage of quieter city streets. Urban consolidation centres can help streamline logistics by pooling goods near city centres, reducing the number of vehicles entering restricted zones. Technology-based solutions such as route optimisation software can also help navigate complex LEZ rules. Tools from companies like Trimble allow businesses to track emissions and optimise routes, while AI-driven solutions from firms like Satalia focus on maximising the efficiency of delivery fleets through minimising wasted mileage, fuel, and time. For fleets unable to upgrade to electric immediately, these solutions provide practical ways to maintain efficiency and avoid fines.

Finally, innovations in last-mile delivery, such as cargo bikes, drones, electric scooters, and autonomous solutions, are emerging as creative alternatives for urban logistics. For instance, from December 2025, in the UK, Uber Eats and Starship Technologies will be trialling autonomous delivery robots. Such innovations, although often more applicable to small-scale deliveries, offer efficient LEZ-compliant alternatives for navigating urban restrictions.

Looking ahead

LEZs undeniably pose challenges for logistics, particularly in the last mile. However, they also present unprecedented opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and enhanced sustainability. By prioritising the electrification of delivery fleets and adapting operations through smarter routing, scheduling, and resource use, businesses can achieve compliance while strengthening their competitiveness. Creative delivery models, from cargo bikes to autonomous delivery robots, can add further flexibility to businesses where these solutions are suitable.

The journey to cleaner air is a shared responsibility. For supply chain actors, adapting to LEZs offers an opportunity to lead the way to greener, more efficient logistics. By modernising fleets and operations, tomorrow’s supply chain can reconcile sustainability and profitability.

Interested in learning more about more sustainable transport in the Supply Chain? Explore the challenges and opportunities of Heavy Goods Vehicle electrification.