Londoners are being urged to help save the environment this week by helping to achieve a major cut in emissions from automotive vehicles.

The Mayor of London has teamed up with the Association of London Government to mount a campaign encouraging motorists to test their vehicle, and make any subsequent adjustments as necessary.

Under a new pricing scheme the authorities are offering half price testing of vehicle emissions, in a bid to raise awareness of the issue.

Over 300 garages throughout London have agreed to take part ion the scheme, offering a cut price testing system as well as the opportunity to install cheap emissions work. Any motorist that requires emissions controls fitting will be offered a 20 per cent discount on labour charges until the end of March.

Ken Livingstone, Mayor of London, welcomed the move as a step towards a cleaner and greener city, and stressed that emissions friendly vehicles were not just a matter of choice.

“By taking up this offer, not only are drivers helping to improve London's air quality but it could save them money, as drivers who fail roadside emissions tests risk a fine of £60,” he explained.

The move also won support from the Chair of the ALG Transport and Environment Committee, Councillor Phil Portwood.

“Londoners have the right to expect to breathe clean air, and this is a great opportunity for all motorists to play their part in achieving this goal,” he commented.

Automotive vehicles produce over half of the total pollutants emitted to London's air.