FX.co ★ 6 ways to reduce air pollution in cities

Ban on cars from city center

In order to improve air quality in major cities, authorities encourage people to use public transport. In this regard, some countries have already banned cars from city centres. Norway and Spain, for example, have introduced a law that forbids driving cars in the heart of Oslo and Madrid. Brussels, Belgium, is recognized as a leader in the fight for clean air. The city’s main streets have long been pedestrian. However, Brussels officials intend to expand further the car-free zone.

Ban on polluting cars

The majority of megacities are not ready to completely give up cars. Therefore, the ban on particular types of vehicles which are the source of harmful emissions has become an option. In 2017 in Stuttgart, Germany, there has been introduced a law that forbids driving diesel cars that do not meet emission standards. In 2016, an initiative was implemented in France which prohibited people from driving cars manufactured earlier than 1997 in the centre of Paris. Experts believe these actions will be enough to improve air quality.

Environmental Regulatory Fines

Many countries are developing fines for traffic offenders aimed at encouraging people to use public transport more frequently. In Madrid, for example, there is a $100 fine for drivers who violate the new rules of using private vehicles in the center of the city. London authorities are planning to completely get rid of diesel cars by 2020. Currently, the owners of such vehicles should pay an additional tax of $12.50 per day.

Pedestrian zones

One of the most effective ways to stimulate people to give up personal transport is to develop pedestrian zones and provide walking access to almost all urban sites. Chengdu is the best example of a city with excellent walking accessibility. Hamburg, Germany, is another city where authorities are trying to develop pedestrian zones which consist of parks, squares, bicycle lanes, and sidewalks. It is expected that by 2035 the green zone will cover 40% of the city that eventually will lead to a decrease in the number of vehicles on the streets and improve air quality.

Cycling strategy

In a number of megacities, authorities are striving to make bicycle transport a priority. Oslo authorities invest in bicycle lanes. In 2017, Berlin authorities started building highways only for cyclists. In Copenhagen, Denmark, there is a well-developed bicycle network with related infrastructure. Therefore, air pollution in the city is very low.

Car sharing

Car sharing is a way to rent a vehicle from companies or private parties. It is a short-term car rental with payment only for the use time period, excluding the petrol cost. According to experts, car sharing expansion can lead to a reduction in the number of cars on the road in the future. At the same time, it can help to keep the mobility of passengers who do not wish to use public transport.