The Sustainable Development Commission issued a report today that requests ministers to initiate the use of average speed cameras so that motorists are forced to adhere to speed limits of 70mph. According to the Commission, if motorists followed the law more closely 1.4m tonnes of carbon dioxide would not be released into the air.
Figures from the Department of Transport show that about 52% of motorists ignore speed limit postings of 70mph. The Commission argues that this could be prevented if speed cameras were used since they are able to measure the speed a car travels on average over a reasonable distance instead of a fixed point camera.
According to the Commission, if these cameras were introduced in urban areas and motorways then people would be encouraged to drive in a more environmentally friendly manner.
Ministers have also stated that the areas that use average speed cameras have seen the number of speeding fines awarded and accidents decline.
Currently average speed cameras are only in use at road works but the government is expected to approve their use in urban residential areas shortly.
Mayer of London, Boris Johnson, also announced just a short time ago that speed cameras will be placed along the east London A13 for a 7.5 mile stretch where speeding is a problem.
Also including in the Commission’s report is a request for all cars to be fitted with automatic speed limiters in order to reduce the amount of carbon emissions that are produced by motorists annually.
