Since the start of this year, eight Alicante municipalities were mandated to introduce low emission zones (ZBE), yet none have moved forward. The underlying reason appears to be political dynamics ahead of the upcoming elections. Mobility policies have sparked controversy, with pedestrianization projects and new bike lanes drawing sharp responses from various groups. Experts note that opposition parties have leveraged these measures to challenge governing coalitions.
Low emission zones are an EU requirement for cities with populations above 50,000, aiming to sharpen air quality and combat climate change through a suite of measures. In Alicante’s province, the affected towns include Alicante, Elche, Torrevieja, Orihuela, Benidorm, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alcoy, and Elda, though none have implemented the scheme yet.
This tension is not unique to Alicante. Of 149 mandated cities, only about twenty began the year with traffic restrictions in place, despite a central government deadline to be fully operational by early 2023. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona are among those that have started the year with ZBE frameworks.
In Alicante, the proposed ZBE envisions curbs on vehicle movement around two rings: an outer ring defined by the Gran Via and an inner ring that covers the traditional urban center, including the historic district. Elche plans to expand its restricted area to the center, covering roughly 536 hectares that include El Pla, Altabix, and El Raval.
Still, these plans remain on paper as they await formal approval. The Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP) has urged delays in decree-law implementation, with the election timetable a key factor cited by many councils.
argument
Mobility policies always trigger debate where they are applied. In the state capital, for example, residents in Raval Roig challenged the pedestrianization of Calle Virgen del Socorro, arguing that the area hosts multiple garages. In Elche, criticism targeted the reduction of parking spaces and the disruption caused by a bike lane running from General Hospital to Pedro Juan Perpiñán street. Alcoy’s administration faced backlash over pedestrianization in the old town and a bike path under construction linking the city center with the Northern district.
These responses help explain why many authorities have delayed ZBE rollout. Fear of electoral repercussions often sits at the heart of postponements, alongside concerns from local businesses and residents who worry about access and traffic flow.
A delay is not just a local concern. Sociologist and University of Alicante professor Carlos Gómez Gil notes that the mobility debate has become a political tool, with some parties framing climate measures as oppositional stakes. He observes that right-leaning groups use the issue to challenge climate policies, shaping how opponents view such reforms when in power.
Gómez Gil also points to Alicante as an example, where a mayor allegedly kept a low emissions plan hidden to avoid political fallout. He frames mobility within a broader political package, alongside taxes, health, and water, arguing that opponents use public services and environmental policy as leverage in political contests.
Low emission zones and electric vehicle concerns drive workshops in Alicante
As discussions intensify, some warn that the urgency to reduce CO2 emissions could be pursued without adequate scrutiny of the measures required by the EU. A phrase often echoed is that scientific evidence is sometimes dismissed in heated debates. This dynamic fuels worries about whether the changes will be implemented thoughtfully or rushed under electoral pressure.
University of Alicante scholars caution that political groups may avoid trouble before elections because the topic is highly sensitive and could sway ballots. Pedagogy and clear communication appear essential to prevent public resistance from turning into hostility toward climate action.
Experts emphasize that effective policies do not ban everyday life; they aim to improve urban planning, mobility options, and the overall quality of life. Pedestrian-friendly streets and well-designed bike networks can coexist with commerce and daily routines when properly supported by public transport and staged transitions.
Acceleration
Armando Ortuño, a professor at the University of Alicante in the Department of Civil Engineering, notes that the push to reduce emissions, noise, and accidents began three decades ago. While progress has varied, the time has come to accelerate. Ortuño stresses that the path is straightforward: strengthen public transit, expand bike networks, and design urban spaces to support accessible movement for all residents. He agrees with Gómez Gil that dialogue with neighbors is crucial. Pedestrianizations can boost trade and allow for loading and unloading; strategies can be tailored to protect local residents while advancing broader goals.
Ortuño insists there is no reason to stall today. The core solution remains: better transit, robust cycling infrastructure, and thoughtful urban design that accommodates both commuters and local living.
Municipalities discuss fines for non-compliance with Low Emission Zones
Despite the political posture of some parties, fines around ZBE compliance remain part of the discussion. Some groups, including Vox, propose repealing low emission zones and argue that bike lanes should be added only where they do not hinder movement. Other parties advocate expansion of pedestrianization and cycling in city centers and historic districts, citing examples from Valencia and Elche as proof of viability.
Within broader regional plans, the PSPV supports extending public transport and tram connections linking Orihuela, Torrevieja, and the airport corridor, while the PP supports broader mobility integration in towns with 20,000 residents or more. Ciudadanos emphasizes park-and-go solutions near major urban centers as part of a practical mobility strategy.