About the programme
In 2017, C40 launched the Green and Healthy Streets Declaration, which includes a pledge to establish a significant area of their city as zero-emission by 2030. The Zero Emission Area Programme works with the 36 signatory cities of the Green and Healthy Streets declaration specifically on this commitment.
There are six focus areas around which the programme facilitates engagement between cities to share policies and strategies. These are:
- Zero emission area design
Support cities to adopt an implementation plan for a zero emission area by facilitating peer-to-peer exchange between cities (through webinars and workshops) as well as raising funding for and/or coordinating direct technical support to cities where possible.
- Urban vehicle regulatory tools
Facilitating peer-to-peer discussions on urban vehicle access regulations (Low Emission Zones, congestion pricing etc) to manage demand for private car trips and accelerate the take up of cleaner vehicles.
Support cities to work with national and state governments to get access to appropriate regulatory tools
Work in collaboration with the C40 Air Quality Network to connect air quality and transportation officials to raise ambition on urban vehicle emissions regulation .
- Walking & cycling for zero emission areas
Ensuring planning and prioritization for walking and cycling infrastructure is incorporated into zero emission areas
Identifying opportunities to engage and communicate with citizens through the implementation of temporary measures for walking and cycling and the design of permanent measures.
- Zero Emission Vehicles for zero emission areas
Promoting incentives for zero emission vehicle adoption through emissions regulations (LEZs, congestion pricing, etc.) or other policies (priority access and/or on-street parking, charging infrastructure etc.)
Ensuring there is sufficient take up of electric vehicles by fleets (e.g. taxis and ride hailing) and individuals by providing information and access to incentive programmes.
- Zero Emission Freight for zero emission areas
Identifying opportunities for the planned zero emission area to create a focus area for zero emission freight engagement and pilot interventions
Ensuring companies operating in the area have access to information and incentives to use zero emission vans and trucks, or cycle logistics.
- Benefits and Communications
Increasing support available to cities seeking to communicate about benefits of zero emission areas, including better health, social equity and mobility outcomes.
Cities participating in the Zero Emission Area Programme are:
Paris, London, Los Angeles, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Auckland, Austin, Barcelona, Berlin, Bogota, Cape Town, Heidelberg, Jakarta, Madrid, Medellin, Mexico City, Milan, Oslo, Quito, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Rotterdam, Santiago, Seattle, Seoul, Tokyo, Vancouver, Warsaw.