Tag: Health
Low emission zones: Between preservation and abolition
Low emission zones are a controversial topic in Germany. Some cities have abolished them, others have retained them. But what could be the reasons behind this inconsistent approach? And how could the abolition of low emission zones affect air quality?
E-car boom in California: A role model for Germany or a castle in the air?
According to a recent study, carbon dioxide emissions have fallen significantly in parts of the US state of California due to the boom in electric cars. The scientists from the University of California in Berkeley analysed data from dozens of CO2 sensors in the San Francisco region, where electric cars are widespread. Over a period of five years, CO2 emissions fell by 1.8 per cent annually, although only almost 20 per cent of cars in San Francisco are either electric or hybrid vehicles.
Bicycle instead of car - Paris in transition
A study by a public foundation has shown that more than one in ten journeys in Paris and the surrounding area are made by bicycle. This is a remarkable increase compared to 14 years ago, when less than one in thirty journeys were made by bike. Paris seems to have been endeavouring to change its transport policy for years. With more cycle paths and cycle lanes, fewer car parks and higher parking charges, the city is trying to promote cycling and reduce car traffic. But what does this mean for the existing low emission zone?
Anti-pollution zones for classic cars?
The world of classic cars is always on the move. On the one hand, there is nostalgia and the desire to keep the history of the automotive industry alive. On the other hand, there is the need to adapt to the constantly changing conditions and regulations regarding the environment and sustainability. A recent development in this context is the new "Villes et villages d'accueil des véhicules d'époque" label, which was launched by the French Federation of Historic Vehicles (FFVE). But what exactly is behind this label and what does it mean for the environmental zones?
How sunlight and CO2 can be turned into sustainable fuel
In a recent article published in the journal Sustainable Energy & Fuels, researchers present a new process that uses sunlight to convert CO2 into methanol. This methanol can be used as a sustainable fuel. This sounds promising, but is it too early to be jubilant?
Manhattan introduces congestion charge!
The New York Transport Authority has made a sensational decision: From 17 June, a city toll will be levied in the vibrant metropolis. Anyone who wants to drive to the southern part of Manhattan in future will have to pay 15 US dollars per day. This would make New York the first city in the USA to introduce such a charge, reports the New York Times.
Government crisis: Is the whole of Germany threatened with a weekend driving ban?
The government is seething once again. This time it's about the Climate Protection Act, which is still stuck in parliament. Transport Minister Volker Wissing has set the coalition partners a deadline and is threatening nationwide driving bans if they fail to meet it. The Greens have yet to adopt a clear position on this.
Almere air pollution: is the environmental zone coming?
The idyllic city of Almere is known for its picturesque landscape and modern architecture. But behind this idyllic façade lies a less pleasant truth: the air quality in Almere is far from healthy standards. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the air in Almere contains up to twice as much nitrogen dioxide as is still considered healthy.
Juliana Canal: closure causes traffic collapse
The unexpected announcement of an eight-month closure of the Juliana Canal has come as a blow to the transport and business sector. The surprising decision has been met with incomprehension and criticism from the TLN, VNO-NCW and Royal Dutch Inland Navigation trade associations. What impact will the closure have on traffic and air quality?
Air pollution: life expectancy falls by 6 years
Air pollution is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide, with the climate crisis playing a key role. This is the alarming conclusion of a study by the Swiss company Indice de Qualité de l'Air (IQAir). The consequences for health are devastating: in the countries most affected, life expectancy could fall by up to six years.