New Low Emission Zone Signs Installed in Marbella and San Pedro Alcántara
In a bid to reduce pollution, new ‘Zona de Bajas Emisiones’ (ZBE) low emission zone signs have been installed in the city centres of Marbella and San Pedro Alcántara. However, these signs are temporary and drivers will only receive warnings, not fines, until a comprehensive air quality study is conducted and the relevant bylaw is introduced.
Spanish Law Mandates Establishment of ZBE Areas
The Law on Climate Change and Energy Transition in Spain mandates that municipalities with a population exceeding 50,000 must establish ZBE areas. These zones aim to gradually eliminate the use of highly polluting petrol and diesel vehicles. Despite Marbella boasting the second-best air quality in Spain, the regulation still applies, as stated by local government spokesperson, Félix Romero.
Marbella Adopts Malaga City’s Model
Marbella has adopted the model used by Malaga city, after considering systems implemented by other cities such as Madrid, Zaragoza, and Alicante. The local government chose to use the same signage as Malaga city to maintain uniformity with a neighbouring city. The ZBE covers central Marbella and San Pedro, where most roads are already pedestrianised.
Restrictions and Goals of the ZBE
The ZBE zones are restricted to vehicles with environmental labels B, C, Eco and Zero. This includes vehicles associated with residents, owners and tenants of parking spaces, commercial premises or tourist accommodation in these areas, as well as delivery, emergency vehicles, Blue Badge holders and municipal service vehicles. The goal is to promote an awareness campaign in these areas and monitor the system’s effectiveness, which will inform the development of more effective regulations, as explained by Romero.
Other Costa del Sol Towns Struggle to Meet Deadline
Spain’s Climate Change Act set a 2023 deadline for municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants to implement their Low Emission Zones (ZBEs). However, many have struggled to meet this deadline. This means that 149 towns and cities will need to designate an area in their urban centres where over-polluting vehicles are prohibited.
Costa del Sol Resorts Affected by the New Regulation
Other Costa del Sol resorts in Malaga province that will be affected include Benálmadena, Estepona, Mijas, Fuengirola, Malaga city, Marbella, Torremolinos and Vélez-Málaga. These areas will also need to implement the new regulations to reduce pollution and improve air quality.
