A number of Welsh roads - including stretches of motorways - have had their speed limits cut to 50mph in an attempt to cut down on emissions.
Five roads, including the M4 at Newport and Port Talbot, have seen their limits reduced from today, with officials claiming the five spots could potentially see a reduction of 18 percent on emissions, Wales Online reports.
Welsh Government environment minister Hannah Blythyn said: "I am committed to taking action to reduce air pollution in Wales to support a healthier future for our communities and protect our natural environment."
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The lower speeds will be in place on the M4 between junctions 25 and 26 and 41 and 42. The A470 between Upper Boat and Pontypridd, the A483 at Wrexham, and the A494 at Deeside are also seeing their limits slashed to 50mp.
Blythyn continued: "Current levels of nitrogen dioxide exceed the legal limit at the five road locations, so we need to act as soon as possible.
"We have been carrying out investigations into all potential measures for reducing nitrogen dioxide levels. Our initial studies tell us that 50mph speed limits should have the greatest potential to improve air quality at each location.
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"The actions we take to improve air quality in Wales have a key role in supporting the right conditions for better health and well-being."
The new speed-limits are part of a bigger plan from the Air Quality Fund to reduce the levels of nitrogen dioxide on roads which are currently above the legal limit.
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Economy and transport secretary Ken Skates said: "I want to see concrete measures put in place by the UK Government which focus on removing the source of the problem.
"They have prevented us from taking our preferred course of action - it is now time for them to step up and use the powers which they have so closely guarded for the benefit of the people of Wales.
"The root cause is the emissions from vehicles, but legislative competence for vehicle standards and fiscal measures, such as the Vehicle Excise Duty and Company Car Tax, remain with the UK Government. Despite repeated calls, the UK Government has consistently refused to devolve powers which allow us to improve standards and incentivise improved emissions through the tax regime."
However, not everyone is on-board with the plan:
Anyone caught going faster than 50mph will be snapped by speed cameras.
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Source: Wales Online
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: UK News, Driving, Wales