Working Paper

Low- and zero-emission zones and social equity: Supporting the urban transition to zero-emission vehicles and alternative transport modes

This study describes supplementary financial support measures provided by selected local and regional governments to assist private individuals and businesses most in financial need in adopting low- or zero-emission vehicles or alternative transport modes within these zones. Example cities include Brussels, Paris, and London.

Figure 1. Overview of supplementary financial support measures along LEZs/ZEZs targeted at private individuals and businesses in most financial need covered in this paper.

The findings highlight that these supplementary financial measures vary between cities, with aid amounts depending on the specific support measures, types of vehicles, and beneficiaries. Such measures aim to enhance equitable outcomes for LEZs and ZEZs, with positive effects observed in cities like Brussels and London, particularly among households in the lowest income brackets and in areas with higher levels of multiple deprivation. These case studies can serve as examples for other cities looking to implement similar zones while ensuring social equity and inclusion for all.

Zero-emission vehicles
Equity
Cities