Beware of Not Doing Anything Reckless with Low-Emission Zones!

Several deputies have proposed a bill to suspend the implementation of Low Emission Zones (LEZ), calling them “poverty offenses”.

The majority of motorists affected by the introduction of LEZ are opposed to this measure, which they consider unfair, especially for low-income households living in suburbs. More generally, this self-isolating measure is completely out of touch with reality, where public transportation infrastructure is unable to immediately replace cars. Paris could be an exception with a substantial network, but it is already often on the verge of breaking down.

Furthermore, LEZs are supposed to restrict access to old, polluting cars, but this rule is already outdated due to improvements in air quality resulting from the renewal of the vehicle fleet. Some deputies have therefore proposed a five-year pause on these zones, noting that urban air quality is naturally improving thanks to existing efforts, particularly in the transportation sector.

When politicians make politics

More generally, the implementation measures for Low Emission Zones (LEZ) have been decided by a handful of political extremists without prior consultation. Some of them likely had good intentions, but rushing ahead without proper reasoning leads to senseless decisions. The suspension of these zones is therefore highly desirable. However, it is also important to think about a future vision where city centers would be accessible only to essential vehicles, such as those of professionals whose work must not be hindered, and supported by a real zero-emission urban transportation network. This model, already being implemented in cities like Paris, Marseille, or Lyon, presents an appealing vision of the future.

In short, suspending LEZs, as proposed by the deputies, is likely a necessary step to reassess this policy, which was implemented hastily and without adequate consultation. But suspension does not mean abolition, and it is urgent to start thinking about the future centers of our cities.

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