A perfect climate change solution is far away. However, Paris aims to bid a rise in air safety and quality by limiting car speeds to 19 mph (30kph). Read to know how this will make a positive impact in the battle against climate change.
All about the Paris climate change solution
The French authorities hope that the city of Paris will witness a safer, less dirty, and quieter environment as the new speed limit for drivers comes into effect. “This is not an anti-car measure,” said David Belliard, the deputy Mayor.
“The city wants to encourage walking, cycling, and use of public transport. The new speed limit should help reduce pollution, noise, and the number of serious accidents,” he added.
Previously the 19 mph speed limit applied to almost 60 percent of the city. Now, it will apply to the entire city. However, few major highways such as the Champs Elysees will hold on to the 31 mph limit to avoid major congestion.
How will the 19 mph limit help?
According to deputy mayor David Belliard, this is an attempt at limiting the use of vehicles to essential travel. Anne Hidalgo, the mayor of Paris, who won her second six-year term in 2020 has made this a reality. She sanctioned the building of several new bike lanes and made Seine quais car-free. Additionally, she also banned old diesel cars and is actively reducing parking space in the city. She believes that this will help in controlling and reducing car traffic.
Additionally, the city hall stated that the police will be lenient in applying the new speed limit in the initial weeks. Moreover, it’s not just Paris! Other cities in France such as Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg will also start the 19 mph speed limit.