From previous news, we already know that Germany is already committed to cleaner vehicles by calling for a ban on combustion engine cars by 2030. It looks like things are heating up because in a landmark ruling, a top court says that cities have a right to ban diesel motors in an effort to improve the air quality in their cities (via Guardian).
Advocates for these types of moves, such as Jürgen Resch of environmental group Deutsche Umwelthilfe, said the ruling is a “great day for clean air in Germany.” According to experts, due to the high levels of nitrogen oxide (NOx), which frequently exceeds the EU limits of 40 micrograms of NOx per cubic meter, it causes between 6,000 and 13,000 deaths every year in Germany.
While the decision is being celebrated by some, it’s definitely not being celebrated by all. Critics of the decision say that the rules will cause uncertainty for drivers and impact Germany’s car market, which is the largest in in Germany. To help with the transition, the government says that there will be no immediate changes, and will be considering a compensation scheme for those affected by this. It’s also worth stressing that the ruling was intended as guidance for individual cities. “It’s really not about the entire country and all car owners,” said Chancellor Angela Merkel.
