European countries roll out climate restrictions for drivers
Tourists driving in Europe this summer are being warned to look out for signs that they’re entering “low-emission zones” or they could face hefty fines for causing “climate change”.
Globalist cities like London have implemented Ultra-Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) — areas only accessible to low-carbon emission vehicles. Cars that do not meet the city’s environmental standards are charged £12.50 ($16.00) for entering the ULEZ. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras positioned around the zones read license plates and check them against the vehicles’ make and model in real time. If a vehicle does not meet the environmental threshold, the fine is levied against the car owner.
Now auto associations are warning English-speaking vacationers in Europe to mind where they’re driving — particularly within France, Italy and Spain. Road signs warning drivers that they are entering a ULEZ may only be in the local language, and that may not save tourists from being slapped with climate fines as high as €1,803 ($1,965). Those who cannot pay the fines on the spot may be escorted by police to a cash point, according to the Guardian.
Drivers in Paris, for example, must take care before entering a Zones à Faibles Émissions (LEZ) in certain vehicles which emit too many carbon emissions. Doing so without displaying the required “Crit’Air” sticker can result in a €750 ($817) penalty. Ten other cities in France have implemented LEZs.
Drivers of foreign cars in Madrid — and eight other Spanish cities and towns — face similar requirements when entering a Zona de Bajas Emisiones (ZBE).
Milan, Florence, Perugia, Naples, Verona, Rome and other Italian cities have also implemented their own low-emission zones.
“In previous days drivers would have to be aware about the yellow vest and a warning triangle and at some periods in France a little self test breathalyzer but that’s since fallen by the wayside,” said Automobile Association President Edmund King.
“But beyond that it was pretty simple driving. Nowadays, particularly if your driving takes you into major cities, it is a much more complicated picture. Drivers really have to do a bit of research before they go,” he added.
Nearly half of London’s residents — over four million people — now live in ULEZs, which cover the North and South Circular Roads. By August 29th of this year, the ULEZ will expand to encompass all London boroughs.
The ANPR cameras, according to Transport for London (TfL), also monitor traffic and serve as security cameras for law enforcement to “prevent and detect crime”.
