The local Brussels authorities have presented a plan for the gradual phasing out of combustion cars in this city. In effect, it means introducing a driving ban dieselsand later also gasoline cars. The Belgian capital wants to become climate neutral by 2050. The rulers also explain their ideas with the desire to reduce the number of illnesses and save money spent on treatment.
There is already a Low Emission Zone in Brussels and it was research related to it that encouraged the authorities to plan such drastic bans. From 2018, the amount of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from transport in this zone has decreased by 11%, and particulate matter by 11.5%. Ban on diesels (producing more nitrogen oxides) from 2030 and gasoline cars from 2035. is expected to reduce the number of diseases caused by NO2 by 25% Not only is this to prevent the premature death of 100–110 people per year, it is also estimated that it will save between € 100 and 350 million in treatment.
What does Brussels want to prepare in return? Large investments in public transport are to be made. In addition, the city authorities want to encourage residents to walk and cycle. City cars by the minute are also to become more popular. Those who still want to use their own four wheels will be encouraged to buy electric cars. From 2025, local authorities will be obliged to purchase electric cars.
We have been hearing about plans to ban cars in various European cities for some time. On the one hand, it can be said that nothing has been settled yet and everything is still possible until the actual introduction of such a ban. On the other hand 2030 will be in 8.5 years, and that is soon. Thus, the Brussels authorities must act if they really want to be ready for such a change at the end of the decade.
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