What if the air we breathe told a story? Here at NO, a building of the Universit Libre de Bruxelles, we stand amidst a city grappling with air quality. Brussels is actively trying to improve its air quality. The story of NO is intertwined with the larger narrative of Brussels’ fight against pollution.
Since 2018, Brussels has implemented a Low Emission Zone or LEZ. This initiative aims to reduce harmful emissions from road transport. The LEZ restricts the most polluting vehicles from entering the city. This has led to significant improvements.
Nitrogen oxide emissions have decreased by over 30%. Fine particles PM2.5 have also seen a reduction. Black carbon has experienced an even more substantial drop. These improvements are directly linked to the LEZ.
Think of the air in Brussels as a canvas. Before the LEZ, it was stained with the heavy strokes of pollution. Now, those strokes are fading. Green shoots of cleaner air emerge. The city’s environmental authority reports a record 30% decrease in nitrogen dioxide levels along major roads.
However, the story is far from over. Air pollution remains a significant challenge. Brussels needs to meet even stricter European standards by 2030. The city is also striving to achieve the World Health Organization’s recommended values. Only a few monitoring stations currently meet these values.
Brussels is taking further action. The city plans to tighten low-emission rules. By 2035, all internal combustion engine vehicles will be banned, with some exceptions. This ambitious plan is projected to save lives. Healthcare costs will also decrease.
The city is investing in sustainable transport. Public transport is being strengthened. A network of e-charging points is available for electric vehicles. These efforts aim to ease the transition to emission-free transport. This reduces reliance on combustion-engine vehicles.
The story of air quality around NO, and throughout Brussels, is one of progress and ambition. It is a testament to the city’s commitment to creating a healthier environment for its citizens. While challenges remain, the direction is clear. Brussels is striving for cleaner air. It wants a healthier future.