Barcelona introduces low-emissions zone

Barcelona has introduced southern Europe’s largest low-emissions zone (LEZ)–covering 95 square kilometres–in a bid to fight air pollution and reconfigure public space.

Drivers of petrol cars registered before 2000 and diesels made before 2006 will incur a fine of €100-150 (US$110-165) should they enter the zone, which covers the entire metropolitan area and its outer suburbs, but excludes the primary ring-road circling the city.

Launched on 1 January, a grace period will exist for the initial three-months—whereby offenders will be notified but fines will not be processed. This extends to one year for delivery drivers and those who can prove they earn less than €8,000 a year.

The zon...