June 24, 2024
Low-emission zones:
the essential guide
summary
Low-emission zones (LEZs) are areas where the most polluting vehicles are regulated. They have become a widespread measure in European cities, with more than 320 active LEZs registered by 2022 and over 500 expected by 2025.
LEZs have proven to be effective at reducing air pollution, contributing to reducing carbon emissions, mitigating congestion, and incentivising the transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs).
This briefing, by the Clean Cities Campaign, is a condensed overview of the knowledge base on LEZs, using our own research and the most up-to-date scientific publications.
It includes a deep-dive into LEZs, practical solutions for city leaders and best practice examples from cities across Europe, including:
- Why cities need LEZs
- What makes a good LEZ
- How to ensure a fair and just transition
Key takeaways
- LEZs are particularly successful in reducing nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations by around 20% in a wide range of conditions. In some cases, such as in Central London, reductions can reach up to 46%.
- There is no ‘one-size fits all’ approach to LEZs. They vary. amongst other things, in size, stringency, timescales and exemptions.
- Low-emission zones can have a positive impact on a city’s retail sector, e.g. Madrid's former zone was linked to an increase of 8.6% in retail sales in the city’s central corridor.
- Cities must ensure a fair transition, especially for the most vulnerable, e.g. introducing reduced costs for bicycle purchases, reduced public transport fares, and shared mobility hubs in poorly connected areas.
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