The C40 Fossil-Fuel-Free Streets Declaration was signed by the mayors of 12 of the world’s largest, most economically important cities, paving the way for the cities in question to transition completely away from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and to create zero-emissions areas in their cities by 2030.
To be more exact, the commitments — which are intended to quicken the move away from fossil fuels and to address growing urban air pollution problems around the world — call for the cities in question to procure only zero-emissions buses from 2025 onwards, and to create zero-emissions zones in important/large areas by 2030.
The declaration envisions “a future where walking, cycling, and shared transport are how the majority of citizens move around our cities.”
The cities in question (party to the declaration) are: London, Los Angeles, Paris, Mexico City, Milan, Copenhagen, Vancouver, Auckland, Barcelona, Cape Town, Quito, and Seattle.
Other actions called for by the declaration include:
∴ Increase rates of walking, cycling and the use of public and shared transport.
∴ Collaborate with suppliers, fleet operators and businesses to accelerate the shift to zero emissions vehicles and reduce vehicle miles in cities.
∴ Cities will report back every two years on the progress they are making towards the goals of the C40 Declaration.
“The largest sources of air pollution are also the largest sources of carbon emissions — and in many cities, transportation is the biggest culprit,” commented the UN Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change and C40 Board President, Michael R Bloomberg.
“C40 Mayors understand thriving cities require clean air. By switching to cleaner vehicles, we can fight climate change and save many lives.”
For further background on the C40, see: C40 Initiative Will Help Developing Cities Access Climate Funds. Or visit its website.
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