Stockholm, Sweden, is set to become the first European capital to impose a ban on gasoline and diesel-fueled cars in a downtown commercial district starting in 2025, according to an announcement by city official Lars Strömgren.
The ban, covering a 20-block area of shops, pedestrian walkways, and some residential areas, is aimed at curbing pollution, reducing noise, and promoting the use of electric vehicles.
While various European capitals have implemented restrictions on gasoline and diesel cars, Strömgren claims that Stockholm’s comprehensive ban is a pioneering move. The plan, unveiled as part of the city’s 2024 budget, has received support from the left-leaning, environmentally-focused city council, which holds the majority, making the November 23 vote expected to pass with ease.
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The initiative envisions creating an “environmental zone” where only electric vehicles will be permitted, with exceptions made for emergency vehicles and transport for the disabled. Strömgren hinted at the potential for the gradual expansion of the environmental zone in the first half of 2025.
Taxi Stockholm, one of the city’s major cab companies, is already making significant strides in transitioning to emission-free vehicles, with approximately 30% of its fleet now being emission-free, a stark increase from the previous year.
While the move has garnered praise for its environmental focus, some critics, including opposition parties, express concerns about potential negative impacts on businesses and the hotel industry.
Other European cities, including Amsterdam and Paris, are also working towards reducing emissions from vehicles. Amsterdam aims to have all transport, including automobiles, emissions-free by 2030, while Paris has restrictions in place for older diesel and gasoline cars and plans for further bans in the coming years.
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