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All about LEZs or low-emission zones

Moving towards cleaner air and a sustainable future

In a joint effort to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, Spain's major cities have taken a step forward with the implementation of Low Emission Zones (LEZ).

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What are low-emission zones?

It is essential to distinguish between low-emission zones and zero-emission zones, each designed with specific objectives to address environmental challenges.

Some cities are adopting measures to limit vehicle access based on their environmental label, with the aim of improving air quality in urban centers and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. This initiative not only seeks to redefine part of urban mobility, but also to lay the groundwork for a healthier and more liveable future for residents.

These low-emission zones actively promote the adoption of sustainable transportation technologies, highlighting electric vehicles and efficient and convenient urban mobility systems for the community.

Low-emission zone (LEZ)

Low-emission label zones define specific geographic areas, generally located in urban environments, such as the center of Madrid, which implement restrictions on vehicle circulation based on their emission levels. The main objective of establishing these zones is to improve air quality and reduce environmental pollution, thus contributing to protecting public health.

LEZs often issue regulations limiting access to vehicles with higher emissions. Specifically, gasoline cars manufactured prior to 2001, diesel cars prior to 2006, or those that do not comply with European emissions regulations fall under this classification. These restrictions are enforced through the use of environmental labels that indicate a vehicle's emissions levels, allowing entry to those that meet the established standards and applying additional fees or restrictions to those that do not.

Zero-emission zone (ZEZ)

Zero-emission zones are urban areas that exclusively admit vehicles that do not emit pollutants into the surrounding area, such as the center of Barcelona, for example. These zones are designed to promote the adoption of mobility technologies with no direct emissions, such as electric vehicles or those powered by clean energy. The distinguishing feature of the ZEZs is their focus on the total elimination of emissions in the area, providing an urban environment free of gases and particulates.

The difference between the LEZs and the ZEZs lies in the focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. On the one hand, LEZs seek to limit and reduce vehicle emissions by allowing access to vehicles that meet certain standards. To this end, restrictions are established based on emission levels, using labels to classify vehicles. On the other hand, the ZEZs are stricter, allowing only zero-emission vehicles, such as electric cars.

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Advantages of LEZs in the city

LEZs not only represent a change in mobility regulation, but also offer significant benefits for both cities and their residents. Some of these benefits are:

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Improved air quality

By restricting vehicle entry, low-emission zones trigger a direct reduction in the emission of gases such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and other compounds.

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Protection of public health

Reducing air pollution in the LEZs has an effect on reducing respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. This not only benefits the health of the residents, but also reduces health care costs.

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Use of renewable fuels

The LEZs promote the transition to cleaner energy sources, such as electricity generated from renewable sources, as well as green hydrogen or renewable fuels. This measure further contributes to the reduction of the carbon footprint of transportation systems and the progressive decarbonization of cities.

Sustainable mobility development

Sustainable urban mobility is presented as a comprehensive and highly effective response. Cities with low-emission zones focus on emissions reduction, preferring environmentally labeled vehicles and promoting environmentally friendly means of transportation, facilitating mobility in specific areas of the city.