The relative environmental benefits of natural gas have been brought to the attention of MPs after a recent report revealed the UK is set to miss Europe-imposed targets.

The environmental targets, already extended from 2010 to 2015, are now not likely to be met until 2025 which could result in a penalty.

Gas Consultants CNG services submitted a paper to the UK Environmental Audit Committee in response to the question of what is the most effective way of reducing particulate and NO2 pollution.

Their key findings are that:

-Natural gas as a vehicle fuel provides significant benefits in terms of local air quality and is the fuel of choice in cities with air quality problems such as Los Angeles, Rome and Delhi.

-The use of natural gas in commercial vehicles and buses will reduce the level of imported oil by 2020 which is good for security of supply and diversity.

-Whilst the gas will be imported, its cost on an energy basis is around 50% of that of oil.

John Baldwin, Managing Director of CNG Services Ltd said, “Much of the world is introducing natural gas vehicles and it is an appropriate time for the Government to review the benefits of natural gas in relation to air quality, jobs, investment and security of supply.”