The introduction of strict environmental zones in cities such as Amsterdam and Utrecht is causing increasing division.
While proponents see the measures as a necessary step towards cleaner air and a better living environment, criticism is heard from various quarters. The impact on car owners, market traders and visitors to the city is particularly seen as problematic. According to critics, the policy leads to social inequality and the erosion of the traditional vibrancy of the city.
left out
With the introduction of the environmental zones, many older diesel vehicles are banned from the city centre. In Amsterdam and Utrecht, for example, diesels from before 2010 are no longer welcome. This means that many car owners, especially those who cannot afford a newer vehicle, can no longer enter the city.
In addition, strict controls are in place and the fines are not small. Anyone who does not comply with the rules risks a fine of 120 euros per violation. This leads to frustration among people who depend on their car for work or family visits. The rising parking fees do not improve the situation. In parts of Amsterdam, parking can now cost up to eight euros per hour, a price that discourages many people from driving into the city.
According to First Chamber member Annabel Nanninga (JA21), the measures threaten to tear away the “soul of the city”. She points out that the liveliness of the city is determined by the interaction between residents, visitors and entrepreneurs. By making it more difficult and expensive to reach the city, the social dynamics are seriously disrupted.
Market vendors are noticing a sharp decline in the number of visitors. Where families used to shop at the market every week, they now stay away more often. The combination of high parking costs and the difficulty of getting there by car means that fewer and fewer people are visiting the market.
Market traders are sounding the alarm. Their incomes are falling and it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep their heads above water. Many of them do not have the means to switch to electric vehicles, which practically excludes them from the market. This not only leads to economic problems, but also undermines the social function of the market.
waivers
For people who are dependent on their car, such as the elderly and people with disabilities, there should be exemptions. But in practice, applying for an exemption turns out to be a difficult process. The criteria are strict and often unclear, which results in many applications being rejected. This causes extra frustration for people who do not have an alternative.
Critics say the policy primarily affects vulnerable groups in society. Those with money can afford an electric car or park in expensive garages, while others are forced to stay outside the city. This creates a divide in which the city becomes increasingly less accessible to people with a lower income.
social consequences
The measures were introduced with the aim of improving air quality, but opponents argue that the negative effects for citizens and entrepreneurs outweigh the negative effects. The question remains whether the balance between climate goals and the liveability of the city is properly monitored.
For now, the trend of stricter environmental regulations seems to continue. The big question is whether municipalities will listen to the growing criticism and make adjustments to ensure the accessibility of the city. Because if the measures undermine the liveliness of the city, the question is whether the city will really remain a city.
