| Description | In December 2022, Sofia Municipality adopted a pioneering measure for Central and Eastern Europe by introducing Low Emission Zones (LEZs) aimed at reducing urban air pollution. The first LEZ for motor vehicles began operating in December 2023, covering central parts of the city where traffic emissions have the highest impact on air quality. A second LEZ, focused on domestic heating appliances, will be launched in January 2025, addressing another major source of pollution during the winter months.
The LEZ areas were carefully selected to balance environmental goals with accessibility, ensuring that alternative routes with sufficient capacity are available for drivers. By restricting the most direct road connections between the western and eastern parts of Sofia, the scheme discourages car dependency and encourages a modal shift towards public transport and sustainable mobility options.
This step marks a significant advancement in Sofia’s efforts to tackle air pollution and climate challenges, demonstrating how targeted restrictions, paired with viable alternatives, can reduce emissions and improve urban living conditions. |
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