Santa Cruz Confronts Challenges in Implementing Low Emission Zones Amid Legislative Pressures

The city of Santa Cruz is currently grappling with the intricate task of implementing Low Emission Zones (LEZ) as mandated by Spanish law. This initiative is part of a broader effort to combat climate change and improve air quality, but the city faces significant hurdles in meeting the requirements set forth by national legislation.

Understanding the Legislative Framework and Local Initiatives

Under the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law 7/2021, municipalities with populations exceeding 50,000 are obligated to establish Low Emission Zones. This legislation aligns with a European directive aimed at achieving climate neutrality by the year 2050. However, the enforcement of this law has encountered considerable obstacles, particularly concerning Article 14.3, which outlines the essential requirements for LEZ implementation. The complexities of this law have led to a heated debate within the municipal assembly of Santa Cruz.

In light of these challenges, the municipal assembly has taken proactive measures by approving a motion that urges the Spanish government to amend the problematic article. This action is intended to safeguard the city from potential penalties that could arise from non-compliance with the law. The assembly’s decision reflects a growing concern among local leaders about the implications of strict adherence to the current legal framework.

Commitments to Reducing Carbon Emissions

Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez has been vocal about Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s commitment to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. He emphasized that the city has consistently met its CO2 reduction targets, particularly in response to a motion from the VOX party, which sought to eliminate the requirement for establishing LEZs altogether. Bermúdez highlighted that Santa Cruz has fulfilled its commitments under the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, achieving a notable 20% reduction in emissions by 2020. Looking ahead, he confidently stated that the city aims for a 30% reduction by 2030, demonstrating a clear commitment to sustainability.

Clarifying Responsibilities and Addressing Implementation Issues

The mayor further clarified that the ruling group is dedicated to combating climate change and transitioning to sustainable energy solutions. He emphasized that sustainability policies are not isolated but are integrated across all council operations. Bermúdez also addressed misconceptions surrounding the motion, explaining that it pertains specifically to the mandatory requirements for municipalities with populations over 50,000. He expressed concern over the potential misinterpretation of these obligations, particularly in light of climate change denial narratives.

Despite the city’s commitments, Bermúdez expressed frustration regarding the lack of progress in implementing the LEZ regulation, which was originally intended to be in effect by 2023. He raised questions about the effectiveness of the law, noting that compliance has not yet been achieved in the Canary Islands. The mayor suggested that a more flexible approach to compliance timelines might have been more effective than the current rigid requirements.

Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with the law’s requirements could lead to significant repercussions for the city, including the potential loss of urban transport fare exemptions. Mobility Councillor Evelyn Alonso revealed that the Ministry of Transport has communicated that without the implementation of the LEZ, transport fare exemptions will be revoked. This could have a profound impact on public transport accessibility for residents, raising concerns about the broader implications of non-compliance.

Widespread Non-Compliance Across the Canary Islands

Alonso further highlighted that among the nine municipalities in the Canary Islands with populations exceeding 50,000, only three have successfully implemented LEZs. She characterized this situation as a widespread failure, asserting that municipalities must comply with the LEZ requirements in some form. Alonso clarified that there has been no request to repeal the law; rather, the goal is to delegate the implementation to individual municipalities, allowing them to tailor their approaches to their specific circumstances and challenges.

Political Debate Surrounding the Motion

During the discussion of the motion, VOX Councillor Alejandro Gómez criticized the LEZ as a product of an ideological framework imposed by Brussels. He argued that both the Popular Party and the Socialist Party in Spain are acting against the interests of Spanish citizens. Gómez raised concerns about whether the focus should be on preserving citizens’ freedom of movement or enforcing restrictions that could impact daily life. Ultimately, the motion received approval from all political groups except the PSOE, which voted against it, highlighting the divisions within the local political landscape regarding environmental regulations.

Key points

• Santa Cruz is mandated to implement Low Emission Zones as per Spanish law.
• The municipal assembly has passed a motion to amend legislation to avoid penalties.
• Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez asserts the city has met its CO2 reduction targets.
• Only three out of nine Canary municipalities with over 50,000 residents have established LEZs.
• Non-compliance may lead to the loss of urban transport fare exemptions.
• The motion garnered support from most political groups, with PSOE opposing it.