Else Beekman
After several months of testing, Alicante’s Low Emission Zone (ZBE) information screens have finally gone live. In the city’s push for cleaner air, the ten digital panels, installed around the city’s perimeter, now display air quality messages.
Since Friday, several Alicante motorists have noticed a change in the messages displayed on the newly operational screens. Previously, the information screens had been looping static images, but they now provide live updates on air quality. Furthermore, they will provide traffic data and parking possibilities.
Featuring the logos of the project’s funding institutions and the ZBE emblem, the information screens occupy a considerable portion of their display with branding. Nevertheless, pedestrians and drivers can read the primary message: “Air Quality: Good.” These screens are positioned along key roadways outside the city’s third ring road (Gran Vía), offering real-time environmental updates to commuters.
Lack of specific pollution data
Despite providing a general air quality rating, the screens do not yet display specific pollution levels. Essential data such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentration and particulate matter (PM) levels are absent. Instead, the screens show three aquamarine-colored bars, whose precise meaning remains unclear. It is uncertain whether these bars indicate acceptable pollution levels or simply serve as a placeholder for more detailed information in the future.
Technical issues before full rollout
Not all screens are functioning as expected. On Saturday, the panel located on Avenida de Denia near the Albufereta junction was found to be inactive. This comes despite the fact that the city installed these screens six months ago with the aim to have these fully operational by now. The malfunction raises concerns about the reliability of the system just as it is officially being launched.
Information screens as a public notice board
Alicante’s Low-Emission Zone officially came into effect on January 31, yet the information screens were still displaying test images that day. Mayor Luis Barcala reassured the public that the screens would be fully operational soon and emphasised their broader role. In addition to air quality updates, the screens will serve as a public information platform, broadcasting various announcements to residents and visitors alike.
The installation of the ten digital panels cost €158,000. This expenditure is part of a much larger €4.5 million investment that the Townhall plans to make to implement the Low Emission Zone infrastructure.
ZBE now fully operational with new traffic restrictions
As of January 31, Alicante’s Low Emission Zone divides the city into three zones: the historic centre, the traditional centre, and Gran Vía. The strictest restrictions apply to the historic centre, where non-authorised vehicles face fines of up to €200 for entry. Only registered residents, property owners, and authorised workers may access this zone, regardless of their vehicle’s environmental certification. Meanwhile, traffic in the second and third zones remains largely unchanged, with no additional restrictions or fines.
To enforce these new measures, the city has installed over 70 license plate-reading cameras and 15 air quality sensors. The city council expects to expand to 300 devices in the coming years.
Also read : Everything you need to know about the environmental sticker and Low Emission Zones in Spain