London Calling: compact diesel machines under scrutiny in capital amid push for cleaner construction sites
29 July 2025
As the largest city in Western Europe, London is coming under greater pressure to cut the air pollution caused by some 5,000 mini excavators and other compact equipment operating within the city limits. That was clear when Volvo CE brought together industry leaders, policy makers and clean air campaigners to demand a change at a London Climate Action Week round table last month.
Image: Dall E
“Cities like London are making great progress to improve air quality. But ignoring construction equipment in low emission policies misses a key health opportunity,” says Thomas Bitter, head of the compact business unit at Volvo Construction Equipment.
“Zero-emission solutions exist, but adoption is too slow. We need full value chain…
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