In a move towards greener future, fourteen Dutch cities are forging ahead with plans to create "zero-emission zones" by 2025.
This means cars, vans, and trucks over 15 years old will no longer be welcome in city centers, as local governments aim to clear the air and cut down on pollution.
According to NOS and Ukrinform, officials insist they've been prepping for this change for over a decade, with extensive talks involving the government and business leaders.
Now, they say, it's time to act.
The zero-emission zones will take aim at the most polluting vehicles on the road, keeping them out of key urban areas. These fourteen cities, undeterred by the calls for a delay, want to hit the ground running as soon as 2025.
The push comes as part of the Netherlands' broader plan to lead the charge on sustainability. The country is also working towards a 2030 ban on the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars, all while boosting electric vehicle ownership.
The goal? Two million electric cars on Dutch roads by 2030.
While city officials are raring to go, some in parliament are pumping the brakes. Lawmakers argue that both businesses and everyday drivers need more time to adjust to the sweeping changes. They’re advocating for a delay until 2029, claiming that rushing could have unintended economic impacts.
