The primary reasons for the city of Rome in Italy to ban diesel vehicles is to cut down on pollutants which cause damage to Rome’s important historical landmarks and, of course, to do what Rome can to help stop climate change. Diesel engines, even “clean” diesel emit an exceptionally high amount of particulate emissions compared to other motors, of the type that cause damage to monuments.
Smog and particulate emissions are of particular importance to Rome because so much of the city’s culture and revenue (through tourism) come from their historical landmarks. Rome estimates that 3,600 monuments are at risk of damage from diesel pollution, and something needs to be done.
Rome has attempted other methods in the past to reduce this damage, such as partial vehicle bans on some days, but this has not been effective enough in reducing pollutants so Rome will now resort to a complete ban on diesel vehicles within the historical center of the city.
The mayor of Rome has also announced that Rome will plant 90,000 trees around the city and is targeting various programs to reduce waste around the city, with the eventual goal of zero waste.
Rome is a member of the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, a collection of 90 cities around the world representing a quarter of the global economy focused on tackling climate change. They are also a member of the Global Covenant of Mayors, a group with a similar goal and composition.
