A new wave of low-emission zones has launched in major cities across Catalonia and the capital region of Spain, targeting vehicles that emit high levels of pollutants. However, the rollout is facing significant challenges: some municipalities are slow to implement strict measures, while others are outright ignoring the mandates. As a result, despite legal requirements on paper, real restrictions for drivers are not always enforced everywhere and often lack penalties.
Delays and Half-Measures
According to current legislation, by 2026 every city with a population over 20,000—and pollution levels above permitted limits—must create special low-emission zones restricting vehicle access. Yet in practice, many municipalities have postponed launching these zones or have introduced only symbolic measures. In some cases, violations are not penalized at all, and the monitoring of high-emission vehicles entering these areas remains largely superficial.
In Catalonia, Barcelona was the first to implement such restrictions, introducing them in 2020 and covering much of the city. However, in other regional cities—such as Gavà, Barberà del Vallès, Ripollet, and Montcada i Reixac—the launch of low-emission zones is set for 2026. In Lleida, Girona, and Tarragona, the restrictions are either only partially enforced or still in the planning stages.
Authorities’ Response and Tighter Enforcement
In response to delays and insufficiently strict measures, government authorities are increasing pressure on local administrations. The country’s General Prosecutor’s Office is already demanding progress reports on the implementation of environmental zones from city officials and is considering sanctions against those who ignore the law. At the same time, the ministries responsible for ecology and internal affairs are drafting new regulations that will oblige municipalities not only to designate these zones, but also to actually fine violators.
In Madrid, a municipal low-emission zone restricting traffic has been in effect since 2022. In recent years, fines for entering with vehicles lacking a special environmental badge have increased from 90 to 200 euros. Starting in 2025, cars without an environmental classification will enter a transition period during which violators will only receive warnings. Some regional cities have already started imposing sanctions, while others, like Arganda del Rey, refuse to implement restrictions. In several municipalities, these zones are only activated when pollution levels exceed the limit.
Public discontent and protests
The introduction of new regulations has sparked a wave of discontent among some residents. In Barcelona and Madrid, protests have taken place against the restrictions, which participants believe unfairly affect people with lower incomes. Demonstrators demand that the main measures target large companies and commercial vehicle fleets, rather than private car owners.
Despite government pressure, many municipalities continue to take a wait-and-see approach. As a result, in practice, the new low emission zones operate differently from city to city: in some places, restrictions are genuinely enforced, while in others they remain only on paper.
Prospects and Next Steps
The situation is expected to change in the coming years. By 2028, when the current municipal governments’ terms end, tighter oversight and mandatory fines for violators are anticipated. Authorities aim to achieve a real reduction in urban air pollution, not just formal compliance with the law.
For now, residents of Catalonia and Madrid are watching as new environmental regulations are implemented at varying speeds and levels of strictness. Whether these measures will effectively improve air quality remains an open question.
