The transition to sustainable mobility is an important issue in the Netherlands. More and more cities are taking measures to improve air quality and reduce CO2 emissions. One of these measures is the establishment of zero-emission zones (ZE zones) in city centres. In this article, we discuss what zero-emission zones are, why they are being introduced and which cities in the Netherlands are going to implement them.
What are Zero-Emission Zones?
A zero-emission zone is an area where only vehicles without harmful emissions are allowed. This means that only electric cars, hydrogen vehicles and other zero-emission vehicles are allowed to drive in these zones. The purpose of these zones is to improve air quality, reduce noise pollution and contribute to a sustainable future.
Why Zero-Emission Zones?
There are several reasons why cities set up zero-emission zones:
Environmental protection: By reducing harmful emissions, zero-emission zones contribute to a cleaner living environment for residents.
Climate targets: The Netherlands has set ambitious climate targets to reduce CO2 emissions. Promoting electric transport contributes to these goals.
Health: Air pollution has negative effects on people’s health. Zero-emission zones help reduce exposure to harmful substances.
Dutch cities with Zero-Emission Zones
About 30 cities in the Netherlands have announced that they will establish zero-emission zones. Here are some of these cities:
Amsterdam: The capital of the Netherlands will only allow all-electric vans in the city centre from 2025.
Rotterdam: Rotterdam also has plans to introduce zero-emission zones. Electric vehicles will be welcome here from 2025.
Utrecht: Utrecht is working on a zero-emission zone that will be in force by 2025.
The Hague: The court city is joining the trend and is also establishing zero-emission zones.
Eindhoven: This city in North Brabant is going to encourage electric vans by creating zero-emission zones.
Groningen: This northern city has plans to introduce zero-emission zones to improve air quality.
Arnhem: Arnhem wants to lead the way in sustainable mobility and will implement zero-emission zones.
Nijmegen: Nijmegen is also joining the trend and is introducing zero-emission zones to promote green city logistics.
Tilburg: In Tilburg, a zero-emission zone is being developed and will be in force by 2025.
Breda: Breda is committed to a cleaner environment and will establish zero-emission zones to achieve this.
Zero-emission zones are an important step towards a sustainable future for urban logistics. By promoting electric transport, cities contribute to a cleaner environment and a healthier living environment.Please note that the exact effective date of the zero-emission zones may vary from city to city. We recommend that you check your municipality’s website for specific information on zero-emission zones in your city. If you have a company car, you can also do the licence plate check to see if it will still be allowed to enter the zero-emission zone in 2025.