Madrid’s low-emissions zone has dropped pollution to 10-year low, report says

This appeared in The Millennial Source.

A low-emissions zone in Spain’s capital appears to have brought about a 10-year low in pollution, despite opposition from the city’s current mayor. The zone, known as Madrid Central, was implemented in 2018 by Madrid’s previous mayor.

However, when the opposition party was voted in the following year, the newly elected mayor attempted to have the new restrictions lifted.

What is Madrid Central?

On Nov. 30, 2018, Madrid enacted a strict low-emission zone around the most trafficked, central area of the city, according to Madrid Central. This effort, championed by then-mayor Manuela Carmena Castrillo, was part of the city’s “‘Plan A” for addressing climate change. The goal was to reduce pollution and adapt the city to the effects of climate change.

The law restricts non-residents from driving in an area of roughly 1.8 square miles, which includes Madrid’s famous Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol. People with reduced mobility as well as emergency service vehicles are also allowed to drive within the zone.

Additionally, the city’s traffic authority distributes environmental stickers for vehicles to determine which are permitted to enter the…