Leipzig Considers Scrapping Environmental Zone as EU Tightens Air Pollution Rules
Leipzig is contemplating eliminating its environmental zone due to consistently meeting EU air quality standards. However, the city and other Saxon areas may require air cleaning plans in the future due to stricter EU air quality regulations.
Leipzig has been meeting current EU air pollution limits, prompting the city to debate abolishing its environmental zone. However, the EU is set to halve air pollution limits for nitrogen dioxide and PM10 fine dust to 20 micrograms per cubic meter of air each by 2030. If weather conditions in 2026 mirror those in 2025, several Saxon cities and districts may need air cleaning plans.
Saxony's air quality significantly declined in the first half of 2025 compared to previous years. The annual limit for PM2.5 fine dust will also be reduced to 10 micrograms per cubic meter of air from 2030. The responsibility for creating air cleaning plans lies with the counties and independent cities in Saxony. Using public transportation and bicycles can help reduce emissions.
Leipzig's environmental zone may be abolished due to current air quality. However, stricter EU air pollution limits by 2030 may require Leipzig and other Saxon areas to issue air cleaning plans again. Saxony is preparing for these changes by updating its air measurement network and expanding online PM2.5 fine dust measurement technology.
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