French Parliament Abandons Low-Emission Zones Amid Criticism

French MPs have voted to eliminate low-emission zones (ZFEs), a controversial policy introduced by President Emmanuel Macron to combat urban pollution. The National Assembly passed the measure with a 98-51 vote, reflecting a split among both opposition and some members of Macron’s party. The decision comes after years of public and political debate over the policy’s effectiveness and its impact on lower-income residents, who often face stricter limitations on driving older, more polluting vehicles. The ZFEs were initially implemented in 13 of France’s most polluted cities in 2019 and have since expanded to all urban areas with populations exceeding 150,000. These zones enforce a ban on vehicles registered before 1997 and require those produced after that date to display a “Crit’Air” sticker to enter restricted zones, categorized into six levels based on vehicle type and emissions. While the abolition is expected to move forward in the Senate, it remains subject to approval through a broader legislative bill and review by the Constitutional Council, which has not yet been finalized. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some arguing that the policy disproportionately burdens vulnerable communities while others believe it was an overreach in addressing environmental concerns. Environmental advocates warn that the reversal could undermine progress in improving air quality in major cities like Paris and Lyon, where ZFEs were most strictly enforced. Meanwhile, the government faces pressure to balance environmental goals with economic and social equity considerations as it navigates the legislative process ahead.