Denmark plans zero-emission zones in Copenhagen and Aarhus to improve air quality

The future of Denmark’s two largest cities may soon feature streets populated exclusively by bicycles, pedestrians, and silent electric vehicles. The national government is set to empower municipalities to establish zero-emission zones, where only electric vehicles will be permitted. Politicians in Copenhagen and Aarhus are enthusiastic about this shift. Earlier this month, Aarhus announced an ambitious traffic plan for its city center, while Copenhagen’s Technical and Environmental Mayor, Line Barfod, expressed her commitment to the initiative, stating that calls for zero-emission zones have been ongoing for years.

In contrast, officials from Denmark’s third and fourth largest cities, Odense and Aalborg, are more hesitant. Odense’s climate councilor Tim Vermund emphasized concerns that such a measure could hinder access to the city and affect local businesses. Aalborg’s city councilor Jan Nymark Rose Thaysen similarly noted that the negative impacts of zero-emission zones could outweigh their benefits.

Despite varying support among cities, a broad parliamentary majority has agreed to amend the law, enabling local governments to implement zero-emission zones, with legislation anticipated to be proposed in the fall.

Currently, environmental zones exist in major cities, showing promising results. A new study reveals that these zones have reduced particulate emissions from vehicular traffic by 36 percent. While the immediate health benefits may seem modest—in terms of lives saved—the overall positive impacts, such as increased cycling, walking, and public transport use, are significant.

Experts advocate for the introduction of stricter zero-emission areas, positing that they could greatly improve air quality and public health. Advocacy groups like Asthma Allergy Denmark support these efforts, emphasizing the urgency of addressing pollution in densely populated urban areas.