Amsterdam to ban petrol and diesel cars and motorbikes by 2030

(The Guardian, 3 May 2019) Diesel cars older than 15 years will be barred next year as first part of anti-pollution drive.

Cars and motorbikes running on petrol or diesel will be banned from driving in Amsterdam from 2030.

The city’s council plans to phase in the change as part of a drive to clean up air pollution, which the authorities blame for shortening the life expectancy of Amsterdammers by a year.

“Pollution often is a silent killer and is one of the greatest health hazards in Amsterdam,” said the councillor responsible for the city’s traffic, Sharon Dijksma, announcing the municipality’s decision.

From next year, diesel cars that are 15 years or older will be banned from going within the A10 ring road around the Dutch capital.

Public buses and coaches that emit exhaust fumes will no longer enter the city centre from 2022. By 2025, the ban will be extended to pleasure crafts on its waters, mopeds and light mopeds.

All traffic within the built-up area must be emission-free by 2030 under the Clean Air Action plan.

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The Guardian, 3 May 2019: Amsterdam to ban petrol and diesel cars and motorbikes by 2030