As of January 1, 2025, Benidorm has introduced its Low Emission Zone (Zona de Bajas Emisiones or ZBE), aiming to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
For the first six months, the focus will be on familiarisation, with no penalties imposed during this adjustment period.
Why Benidorm introduced a low emission zone
The implementation of the ZBE in Benidorm aligns with Spain’s national commitment to the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law. Moreover, this law mandates all cities with over 50,000 residents to establish low-emission zones by 2025. It also ensures compliance with European Union environmental guidelines.
The Spanish Ministry of Transport has warned that cities failing to meet this requirement will lose access to transport-related funding. Furthermore, in Benidorm, the ZBE initiative is part of the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan, supported by the European Union.
According to Francis Muñoz, Benidorm’s Councillor for Mobility, the gradual implementation will help residents adapt without abrupt disruptions. Sustainable mobility measures, such as the ZBE, are expected to create a healthier, safer urban environment by reducing vehicle emissions.
Access to the ZBE in Benidorm
Not all vehicles are allowed unrestricted access to the ZBE. The following groups have specific permissions:
- Public vehicles and those with special authorisation.
- Residents living or registered within the zone can apply for an annual exemption. This exemption can be renewed through the municipality.
- Temporary or occasional access permits are available for specific needs.
Support for residents
To help citizens navigate the changes, the municipality is launching several initiatives:
- Information desk: From January 7, residents can visit a dedicated service point at the town hall between 8.00 am and 3.00 pm.
- Digital tools: In February 2025, a digital platform and a mobile app will be introduced. These tools will allow residents to verify their vehicle’s status and understand the necessary steps for compliance.
- Public awareness campaigns: Since September 2024, the municipality has conducted outreach efforts, including information campaigns and social media updates. A downloadable flyer with detailed guidance is available on Benidorm’s official website.
Timeline for implementation
- January 2025: Initial testing of the ZBE platform with systems such as DGT (General Directorate of Traffic) and local databases begins. Data from street-installed equipment will also start being collected.
- February 2025: Additional meetings with local sectors to refine the system and address any challenges.
- March to June 2025: The digital platform will be fully operational, and residents are expected to integrate it into their routines.
A step towards sustainable urban living
The introduction of Benidorm’s ZBE represents a significant step towards achieving sustainable mobility and complying with EU climate directives. The familiarisation period, coupled with robust support systems, ensures that residents can smoothly transition into this new era of urban planning.
By embracing these changes, Benidorm aims to set a standard for healthier, greener cities across Spain. For more details, visit the municipality’s website or contact the dedicated information desk.