The research, led by atmospheric chemistry expert Professor James Lee of the University of York, found that emissions from domestic gas boilers significantly outweigh those from vehicles when it comes to harmful air pollutants. These emissions contribute not only to greenhouse gases (GHGs) but also to dangerous nitrogen oxides (NOx), which are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
According to the study, replacing natural gas heating with clean technologies like electric heat pumps could eliminate these harmful emissions entirely at a local level.
Martin Lewerth, CEO of Aira Group — the London-headquartered clean energy firm leading the charge on heat pump installations — is urging the Government to act swiftly to remove policy and cost barriers currently hindering progress.
“Despite being one of the most congested cities in the world, the single biggest source of air pollution in central London is no longer traffic — it’s gas boilers,” said Lewerth. “This research makes it clear: we need to move away from gas boilers in favour of clean heat solutions, such as heat pumps, to improve air quality.”
He added: “Schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme are a step in the right direction, but we need more decisive Government action. That includes rebalancing the cost of electricity versus gas, confirming planning changes for heat pumps, and revisiting the gas boiler phase-out timeline.”
The study also draws attention to international examples of decisive action. In California’s San Francisco Bay Area, for instance, all new boilers will be required to produce zero NOx emissions by 2027 — a move expected to save up to $530 million annually in public health costs.
Lewerth warned that inaction in the UK will continue to harm public health, the environment, and household finances: “These changes need to be handled with care, but failure to progress only causes more harm. Now is the time for change.”
As London continues to grapple with air quality issues, experts and clean energy leaders agree that tackling pollution from heating systems must be a top priority.