Next Wednesday, 22 September, it's that time again, in 46 countries and in over 2000 municipalities: Car Free Day will be celebrated as part of Mobility Week. On this day, people appeal to car drivers to leave their cars behind and get around by bicycle or public transport instead.
Switzerland also has to deal with air pollution. But it does not have to adhere to the EU's specifications. Instead, it has declared a much stricter limit value for particulate matter to be binding. It is not the European 40 µg/m³ that applies in Switzerland, but 30 µg/m³, which must be adhered to. Because this does not always work, there is an environmental zone in Geneva and the surrounding towns of Carouge, Cologny, Lancy and Vernier.
By 2040, there should be no more combustion vehicles in Lucerne. The city has also set itself ambitious goals for the energy sector and climate protection.
Switzerland wants to impose a driving ban on vehicles with noise levels above 95 decibels. This would affect not only motorbikes, but all types of vehicles. However, it will be some time before a possible ban comes into force. The ban has been widely criticised.
Nitrogen dioxide pollution in Basel is clearly too high. Several measures are being taken to change this. Among other things, Switzerland's first permanent low emission zone is to be introduced.
Saharan dust caused particulate matter levels in Europe to skyrocket this week. In Switzerland, the speed limit on motorways was tightened. In France, the activation of the environmental zones was mostly too late. In some areas, they were dispensed with altogether despite the pollution.
E-fuels could revolutionize commercial diesel and gasoline engines. However, experts warn against turning away from battery-powered engines too quickly.
After an electronically operated small aircraft in Switzerland received its starter licence at the beginning of this week, the city of Winterthur is now adding to this with its concept for several car-free Sundays.
