March 2021
Too few low emission zones in Europe
Many cities in Europe have already taken up the fight against air pollution. In some countries, however, the air is still worryingly dirty. Especially when it comes to particulate matter, cities without low-emission zones perform extremely badly. But even those with driving bans continue to struggle against pollutants.
Half-hearted end of the internal combustion engine
In the debate about the end of the internal combustion engine, Germany has now decided on a concrete date. However, the date of 2035 is much further in the future than in other countries. In addition, the government is leaving a loophole open with synthetic fuels for the internal combustion engine.
Europe fights against traffic noise
It is not only air pollution that affects citizens in urban areas. Noise caused by traffic is also harmful to health. Many countries want to put an end to it.
A love story - the German government and the diesel
German politicians could hardly behave more paradoxically: The German government is promoting the mobility revolution and the switch to electric cars, but prefers to drive diesels itself. The Ministry of Transport is doing particularly badly. It has failed as a role model.
End of the combustion engine demanded
Many countries in the EU are calling for an end to diesel and petrol cars. They want a concrete phase-out date from the European Union that would put an end to the sale of new cars with internal combustion engines. Germany is staying out of the debate.
Millions in investment unused
The catalytic converters for diesel cars were supposed to upgrade older vehicles to Euro standard 6. Even before the development, experts warned that the retrofitting would be technically too complex and expensive, and would not be worthwhile. Environmental organisations and the party "die Grünen" nevertheless insisted on the technology.
Environmental zones for e-cars
E-cars contribute massively to particulate pollution, but unlike internal combustion vehicles, they are not regulated. Heavy sedans and SUVs in particular produce large amounts of the harmful particles. Will they soon be threatened with a driving ban?
Electric challenge of the logistics industry
Many countries have declared war on vans and trucks with combustion engines. Even newer combustion engines will soon no longer be allowed to enter some zones. The industry must act quickly.
Sunday driving bans in Paris and Bordeaux
On the first Sunday of every month, vehicles are banned in the centre of the two major cities. This Sunday is no exception.
Environmental zone chaos in Germany
Last year's air quality values are causing confusion in Germany. While some cities want to stick to driving bans because the data is not reliable due to the Corona pandemic, other cities are seizing the opportunity and abolishing driving bans and environmental zones. You do not attribute the success to the pandemic, but to the mobility concepts of the cities. Is this too hasty?