The town hall is trying to make Archway businesses more profitable – by cutting air emissions.

Islington Council has launched a “zero emissions network” (ZEN) for Archway to help firms switch to lower emission energy and transport options to save money.

It is part of the council’s crusade to improve Islington’s air quality, and 50 businesses have already signed up.

Environment leader Cllr Claudia Webbe said: “Whether it is helping businesses switch to energy-efficient lighting, or giving them the means to undertake local deliveries by bike or electric scooter, every little helps.

“It makes good business sense to sign up to the ZEN. Customers increasingly prefer to deal with businesses that can show they care about their environmental impact and take steps to reduce it, and it helps cut running costs and improve air quality.”

Ian Morris, owner of Map Gift Shop in Junction Road, has signed up.

He said: “With the rising costs of energy we thought it would be a good idea, as there would be a financial saving for us. We are looking to change the lighting in the shop, and we also realised that anything we can do to lower the pollution rate locally, the better.”

And Barry Brundage, manager of the Second Chance charity shop is looking into the free trial of a new cargo bicycle.

He said: “The chance to trial a cargo bicycle could help us offer local deliveries of purchases from the store to customers.

“The deliveries will generate zero emissions, helping us operate sustainably and spread the message of improving air quality in the area.”