The Low Emissions Area: A Step
The recent implementation of the low emission area (ZBE) in Tarragona is an opportunity to transform the city into a healthier and more sustainable space. However, the local government has opted for a limited version of this initiative, with so many exceptions that distort its initial purpose.
Critics of the current proposal
From the group in Comú Podem Tarragona, the proposal has been tried to enrich more than fifteen modifications, but the Government’s response has been scarce. The only accepted change was that the creation of the ZBE is carried out through a municipal plenary session instead of a decree of the mayor’s office.
The position of En Comú can we can
Jordi Collado, spokesman for the group, has stated his disagreement with the lack of ambition of government, saying that “we cannot oppose such a measure, but his weakness makes him virtually ineffective”.
Pollution: an urgent problem
The pollution situation in Tarragona is alarming. The air we breathe is a danger to public health, contributing to various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, especially among the most vulnerable populations.
The influence of the election calendar
Toni Carmona, Minister of En Comú Podem, emphasized that the postponement of sanctions until 2028 is not a coincidence, but a clear political strategy. “The Government has decided to avoid any political cost before the next municipal election,” he said, criticizing the lack of courage to implement significant measures.
Need for a sustainable mobility plan
Tarragona cannot afford to continue to postpone the reforms that have already been adopted by other European cities. The ZBE should be an instrument to ensure a cleaner air and promote public transport. Unfortunately, the government has chosen a minimum and ineffective version of the strategy.
A future without strategy
The En Comú group can regret that this situation represents a new lost opportunity for the city. The ecological transition requires a determination that has not been present so far. “The citizens of Tarragona deserve a cleaner air and a mobility model that really works,” Carmona concluded.
Parking policy review
In addition, the municipal group has stated that the car park policy requires a deep review, as it is currently not part of a global strategy consistent for the city’s mobility.
