Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona

Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Presentation

For many years now, the World Health Organization has been telling 1. Air pollution and its effects 4 Contents us something that none of us can afford to ignore: the quality of the air we breathe has a direct effect on our health. It is a fact to which this Go­ 2. The air we breathe in Catalonia 14 vernment has devoted considerable attention and, as part of this ongoing effort, on 27 September 2014 it approved the Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric Environment Protection Areas (AQAP), horizon 2020. 3. Air quality action Plan 22 In general terms, the ambient air quality in Catalonia is good. There are sporadic, localised exceptions that are being monitored and which are being addressed jointly by government and enterprises with a view to im­ 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan 28 plementing measures that can provide a permanent solution. However, as is the case of most urban agglomerations, the pollutants emi­ 5. Appendices 54 tted in the Barcelona conurbation by transport, industry, power generation,­ Assumpta large logistics infrastructures and domestic activity have for many years ex­ appendix 1. List of actions by the Government of Catalonia 55 Farran i Poca ceeded the limits established for two pollutants in particular: nitrogen di­ and municipalities with more than 100,000 inhabitants oxide and suspended particulate matter, although the latest data available in the AQAP Phisics of the Air and Geophisics indicate that the levels of the latter pollutant are improving considerably. appendix 2. Barcelona Declaration on air quality, noise 56 Director-General for Unlike other environmental vectors, only preventive measures are effec­ reduction and improvements in health in large urban Environmental Quality tive in improving air quality. In the case of water, for example, any short­ agglomerations falls in prevention targets can be made up for with water treatment plants. But in the case of air, there are no ‘end-of-pipe’ measures for removing pollu­tants; we can only apply preventive measures, that is, emitting fewer pollu­tants into the atmosphere; otherwise, the only alternative is to wait Management: Coordination: for the wind and rain to blow them away. Assumpta Farran Isabel Hernandez Director-General for Deputy Director-General for Air Air quality is not something that we can leave to chance. Accordingly, the Environmental Quality Pollution Prevention and Control Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric Environment Protection Areas, sponsored by this Ministry, reflects a proactive approach taken by the Government, local authorities, companies and citizens and includes a Technical input: Editorial staff: This document outlines the main features of the battery of structural actions intended to act on the sources of atmospheric Expert committee on air Document coordination: Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric pollution in the Barcelona region and guarantee the Plan’s continuity and Environment Protection Areas which is the quality Xavier Mateu applicability. CREAL Technical coordination: instrument that the Government of Catalonia is implementing to improve air quality in the Air Network EU Xavier Guinart, Albert Garcia, agglomeration of Barcelona The measures included in the Plan are not easily implemented, because European Commission. DG Meritxell Margarit, Gemma they impact on important economic aspects and also daily routines; but Environment Tello, Susana Gil i Laura Díaz As background information, the present status of the ambient air both in Catalonia in general and in they are not arbitrary and address carefully studied needs. That is why one Barcelona Port the special protection area, the air pollution process, Metropolitan Transport Photographs: the main pollutants, how they are distributed in the of the strategic pillars must be communication: citizens need to under­ Authority (ATM) Subdirectorate General for territory and how they may affect people’s health stand that air pollution will not improve without an active commitment. AENA. Barcelona Airport Air Pollution Prevention and and ecosystems are also explained. Directorate-General for Control, AENA, Barcelona Finally, appendix incorporate Barcelona Declaration The Plan is an opportunity to move the economy forward towards a new Environmental Quality Port, Metropolitan Transport on air quality, noise reduction and improvements in model of city and country where innovation is not only at the service of Subdirectorate General for Authority (ATM), Catalonia health in large urban agglomerations adopted at Environmental Qualification housing agency, Granollers City the Symposium of the same title that took place in economic activity but also of the goal we explain in this document: im­ and Intervention Council, FGC, CSIC-IDAEA Barcelona on 5 June 2015, the World Environment prove the air we breathe and reduce the noise around us. And within this Day. goal, we are working to ensure that the growth of the port and the airport, the improved efficiency of public transport, the promotion of electric vehi­ The contents of this cles and industrial progress are compatible with a smarter and cleaner city D.L.: B 23207-2015 publication may be Graphic design and layout: Faino, s.l. reprinted as long as the and country. Printing: Agpograf Impressors source is cited 2 3 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 1. Air pollution and its effects Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

The air we breathe is a common good that is necessary for life, and every one of us has the right to use and enjoy it. Breathing polluted air may affect people’s health, so it is important to preserve its quality.

Air is composed mostly of nitrogen (N2) and oxygen (O2); these two gases a­ 1. Air pollution and its effects ccount for 99% of its mass. While the former gas enters and leaves our lungs virtually without any interaction, the latter is essential for life. The remaining 1% is composed of other compounds, some of which are pollutants and may have harmful effects on people’s health or the environment. Air pollution is a process that starts with the emission of pollutants into the atmosphere, where these substances may undergo different transport and/or transformation effects. As a result of these processes, there is always a certain pollution concentration at any given time and place; this is what is known as immission or air quality levels. Pollutants originate from human activities or natural processes. We can act on the former, while the latter are phenomena that are intrinsic to the planet’s dynamics and, therefore, are impossible to control. The anthropogenic sources consist above all of different types of combustion, whether in industrial or energy processes or in domestic or transport activities, although they may have other origins, such as major construction work or mining activities. Once they are in the atmosphere, the pollutants are affected by weather con­ ditions, that is, they are transported horizontally and vertically and are diluted in the cleaner air surrounding them. They can also undergo other phenomena, such as chemical reactions that turn them into other compounds, or they may be swept along by the rain, joined with other substances or fragmented, etc. In recent decades, the industries that were in the historic centres of cities have moved out to the edges or to industrial parks; furthermore, significant improvements have been made in production processes, reducing the effect of their emissions on the population. However, with urban growth, residential areas are still being built too close to industrial zones, with the result that even today, large-scale industrial activities take place alongside populated areas. During the same period, however, the number of motor vehicles on the roads has grown enormously. As a result, the origin of the pollution problems has changed in recent years and this forces us to look for new solutions. Even though our cities share many of the atmospheric pollution problems that exist in Europe, they also have specific problems that do not exist in other Eu­ View of Barcelona a day when the weather situation hinders the dispersion of pollutants. ropean cities, related in particular to the high density of population and vehi­ This situation favors the formation of a layer with high levels of pollution concentration cles, and the height of the buildings, which prevents pollutant dispersion, but and low visibility also to the relative lack of rainfall, which prolongs the persistence of pollutants, and the intense solar radiation, which is the source of photochemical processes such as the formation of tropospheric ozone.

4 5 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 1. Air pollution and its effects Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Basic definitions

Air quality legislation The law regulating how air quality is to be meas­ ured and assessed is Royal Decree 102/2011, of 28 January, concerning air quality improve­ ment, which transposes European Directive 2008/50/EC. This legislation also defines air quality objectives for each pollutant. There are different types of objectives, which require diffe­ rent actions: Long-term objective: a quality level to be attained in the long term and maintained, if possible, through proportionate measures, with the aim of guaranteeing effective protec­ tion of human health and ecosystems. Target value: a level to be attained, if possi­ ble, over a given period, with the aim of avoid­ ing, preventing or reducing harmful effects on The special atmospheric environment protection area covers an area of 725km2 and are 40 human health or the environment as a whole. municipalities where 4.3 million people live there. Granollers is the easternmost town Limit value: a level to be attained, fixed on the basis of scientific knowledge and not to be ex­ the population as a whole or a risk of environ­ Air quality zones (AQZ): areas with similar lonia approve an action plan that includes the ceeded, with the aim of avoiding, preventing mental degradation, rendering it necessary to features as regards air quality; they include actions required to restore the area’s air quality. orography, climate, population density, the or reducing harmful effects on human health take immediate steps. Environmental pollution episode: Decla­ volume of industrial and transport emissions. or the environment as a whole. ration of such episodes is a preventive tool of Limits fixed by the European Union with Catalonia is structured in 15 air quality zones air quality management. An episode starts Information threshold: a level beyond respect to the limits of the World Health (AQZ). when the hourly limit value of 200 µg/m3 for which there is a risk to human health from Organization (WHO): the goal of the legisla­ Special atmospheric environment pro- nitrogen dioxide is exceeded or it is predicted brief exposure for particularly sensitive sec­ tion enacted by the EU is to achieve air quality tection areas (SPA): These are areas in that it may be exceeded at a certain number tions of the population. This situation means targets with an acceptable social and economic which the permissible air quality limit values are of stations of the Air Pollution Monitoring and that targeted information and recommenda­ cost, and they are mandatory. The air quality exceeded and medium and long-term mea­­­ Forecasting Network, or, exceptionally, when tions must be disseminated immediately in objectives determined by the WHO are based sures are required to restore air quality. The at­ another situation requires this. It is usually order to reduce certain emissions. solely on health criteria and they are more de­ mospheric environment protection regulations concurrent with adverse meteorological con­ Alert threshold: a level beyond which there is manding. They are not enforceable but are sim­ require that these areas be declared special pro­ ditions for air quality such as the presence of a risk to human health from brief exposure for ply recommendations to be taken into account. tection areas and that the Government of Cata­ anticyclonic subsidence.

6 7 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 1. Air pollution and its effects Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Effects of pollution on people’s health Health impacts of air pollution Air pollutants can have a serious impact on human health. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable.

Irritation of eyes, nose and throat Breathing problems (O , PM, NO , SO , BaP) General aspects 3 2 2 Headache and anxiety (SO2) Ninety per cent of the urban population of the Impacts on the central nervous EU is exposed to concentrations of certain at­ system (PM) Impacts on the respiratory system: mospheric pollutants that the WHO considers Irritation, inflammations and infections harmful for health. According to the WHO, in Asthma and reduced lung function 2008, 270 urban areas in 21 European states Chronic obstructive pulmonary exceeded the permitted levels of NO . disease (PM) 2 Lung cancer (PM, BaP) Pollutants’ effects on health may be episodic or chronic. They are episodic when an individual is Cardiovascular exposed to high concentrations of pollutants for diseases (PM, O , SO ) a brief period, a few hours or days, due to occu­ 3 2 Impacts on liver, spleen and blood (NO ) rrence of an exceptional situation. On the other 2 hand, the effects are chronic when the indivi­ sulphur dioxide (SO2) and suspended particulate dual is exposed continously to lower concentra­ matter (PM10). tions of pollutants. Atmospheric pollutants also have a harmful In the Government’s prevention policies, envi­ effect on the surrounding environment, which ronmental episodes are defined as anomalous can be buildings, ecosystems or crops. concentrations of certain substances in the at­ Impacts on the reproductive mosphere, some of which exceed certain levels system (PM) close to the air quality objectives. The health Pollution may reach people by three dif- effects caused by such episodes are felt particu­ ferent routes: Source: EEA, WHO, Eurobarometer larly by the risk population, and such effects are • The respiratory route, which is the main en­ significant, even though they only persist for a try route for airborne pollutants. Particulate matter (PM) are particles that are Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) originates from incomplete few days a year. However, the quality of the air • The digestive route; pollutants present in suspended in the air. Sea salt, black carbon, dust and combustion of fuels. Main sources include wood and we breathe every day is more important, be­ the atmosphere settle on the water, soil or condensed particles from certain chemicals can be cause it has a continued effect on the health waste burning, coke and steel production and motor vegetables, which are then eaten by people. classed as a PM pollutant. of the entire population, all year round; these vehicles’ engines. Nitrogen dioxide (NO ) is formed mainly by effects, which may become chronic, favour the • The cutaneous route; this is marginal and 2 combustion processes such as those occurring in car persistence or aggravation of certain diseases may only become significant for the toxic in­ engines and power plants. and cause an excess mortality or a decrease in gredients contained in certain insecticides. 97% of Europeans are exposed to O3 concentrations above Ground level ozone (O ) is formed by chemical the population’s life expectancy. 2 the World Healt Organisation recommendations. The atmospheric pollutants’ health effects vary reactions (triggered by sunlight) involving pollutants The most common effects of air pollution are depending on whether they are gases or parti­ emitted into the air, including those by transport, natural EUR 220-300 is how much air pollution from the 10.000 gas extraction, landfills and household chemicals. irritation of the mucous membranes (eyes, nose cles, the size (in the case of particulate matter largest polluting facilities in Europe cost each EU citizen in and oesophagus), respiratory symptoms (irri­ depending on their diameter, they penetrate to Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is emitted when sulphur 2009. tation, inflammation, asthma, impaired lung a greater or lesser depth in the respiratory and containing fuels are burned for heating, power function...) and cardiovascular symptoms (vaso­ circulatory system), the chemical composition 63% of Europeans say they reduced their car use in the last generation and transport. Volcanoes also emit SO2 into constriction, heart rhythm disorders...) caused and the dose inhaled. Also influence people’s the atmosphere. two years in order to improve air quality. mainly by ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), age, state of health, sex and customs.

8 9 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 1. Air pollution and its effects Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Dates de referència

Some background information in protection of the atmospheric environment in Catalonia

1983 1986 1989 1991 1994 1997 2000 2003 2006 2009 2012 2015

1996 2015 2008 2011 2013 1983. Atmospheric The European Directives Environment Protection Les directives europees Law 22/1983 Having joined the European U­nion, The Directive 2008/50/EC of 21 May on am- In December 2013, the Euro­ in the year 2000, Spain imple­ bient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, pean Commission approved the With this Law, atmospheric pollution mented the European environmen­ was approved. It revised the most important aspects Clean Air for Europe (CAFE) was regulated for the first time tal regulations, which were much of the previous directives, becoming the new regula­ Programme, which is the new in Catalonia. The enactment of more advanced than those enact­ tory framework for air quality in Europe, and provi­ European strategy for improving this Law led to the creation of the ed in Spain. During the 1990s and ded for the possibility of postponing the deadline for air quality, requiring compliance Air Pollution Monitoring and the first years of the new millen­ compliance with the air quality limit values for three with the current air quality limit Forecasting Network in Catalonia nium, the European Commission years for suspended particulate matter with a dia­ values by 2020 at the latest and

(XVPCA), which is the tool we use to had approved Council Directive meter less than 10 microns (PM10) and five years for setting new goals for 2030. At assess air quality. The Atmospheric 96/62/EC of 27 September nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and benzene. The air quality the same time, the proposal to Environment Protection Law lays 1996 on ambient air quali- improvement plans associated with these postpon­ revise the Directive on national down the actions that are to be ty assessment and manage- ement applications must meet certain conditions emission ceilings, establishing carried out when the established ment, and the 4 ‘daughter’ Direc­ that must be assessed by the European Commission. stricter values for 6 critical pollu­ air quality levels are exceeded and tives that established limit values Also during the period 2000-2010, the Commission tants for each of the European provides for the declaration of special for different pollutants and other updated other air quality-related directives, such as large Union Member States, and the protection and special attention Directives on information and data combustion, waste incineration and co-incineration proposed medium combustion areas. exchange. plants, limiting pollution transfer to the atmosphere. plants Directive were submitted.

2011. Royal Decree 102/2011, concerning air quality improvement

This is the framework law for the basic regu­ lates air quality assessment, maintenance and im­ lations in Spain concerning air quality, which provement. It also establishes common criteria and transposes Directive 2008/50/EC on ambient methods for determining the concentrations of the air quality and cleaner air for Europe, and par­ regulated substances, how the public and the Eu­ tially develops Spanish Law 34/2007 concer­ ropean Commission must be informed about the ning air quality and protection of the atmospheric pollutants’ concentrations and compliance with the environment. air quality targets and improvement plans, with the goal of avoiding, preventing and reducing the harm­ This Royal Decree defines the air quality tar­ ful effects of pollution on human health and the en­ gets for a number of pollutants, and regu­ vironment as a whole.

10 11 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 1. Air pollution and its effects Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Dates de referència

2006 2009 2012 2015 2018 2020 2021

2007 2014 2014 2020 2007-2014. The first Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric 2014-2020. Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric Environment Protection Areas, 2007-2010 Environment Protection Areas (AQAP), with horizon 2020

In May 2006, the Government of Catalonia, The implementation of the measures of the On 23 September 2014, the Air by industry and the tax on electricity considering the evolution of the air quality data, 2007-2010 Plan, its extension and the new Quality Action Plan in Special production by nuclear power plants. declared forty municipalities in the conurba­ measures that have been implemented have Atmospheric Environment Pro- The taxes created by this Law perform, tion of Barcelona to be special atmospheric brought about a significant improvement tection Areas (AQAP) was approved on one hand, a no fiscal function in environment protection areas for the pollutant in the levels of suspended particulate ma­ by means of Government Agreement guiding the behaviour of the economic

particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 tter (PM10), detectable from 2008 onwards. 127/2014; the measures included in actors concerned, but are also an eco­

microns (PM10); 16 of these municipalities were However, the improvement of the average this Plan encompass key areas such as nomic policy instrument that will ge­

also declared special protection areas for the annual levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) has vehicle traffic, the port and the airport, nerate additional revenues to finance,

pollutant nitrogen dioxide (NO2). In July 2012, been much slower. In both cases, the im­ citizen awareness or taxation, among in part, public spending and investments the Government declared all areas for both provement detected in air quality has been others, and establish responsibilities, intended to improve air quality.

pollu­tants, NO2 and PM10. positively influenced by the decrease in acti­ indicators and implementation time­ In July 2007, the Government of Catalonia vity and mobility caused by the severe econo­ lines that imply a phased application, This same Law amends the 1983 At­ approved the Air Quality Action Plan in mic crisis, but also by enactment of the Euro- such that full attainment of its objec­ mospheric Environment Protection Special Atmospheric Environment Protec- pean Directive on integrated pollution tives will take place in 2020, according Law, thereby modifying, adapting to tion Areas 2007-2010, which set forth 73 prevention and control (IPPC) and the to the guidelines of the Clean Air for current needs and putting into ope­ measures that had to be adopted to improve Directive on large combustion plants, which, Europe Programme. ration, for the first time, the Atmo­ the air quality in the municipalities that had in November 2010, were consolidated in the spheric Environment Protection been declared special protection areas. This new Directive on industrial emissions (IED), In its implementation of the Plan, the Fund, which is used to fund public Plan, which expired in December 2010, was and the ‘Euro’ Directives, which regulate the Catalan Parliament approved Law spending and investment on protec­ extended by the Government until a new pollutant emission levels allowed for motor 12/2014, of 10 October, concerning ting the atmospheric environment and plan to replace it was approved. vehicles in the European Union. the tax on nitrogen oxide emissions improving noise quality and, in general, into the atmosphere by commercial the policies for improving atmosphe­ aviation, the tax on gas and particulate ric quality and preventing atmospheric matter emissions into the atmosphere pollution.

Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric Environment Protection Areas

12 13 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 2. The air we breathe in Catalonia Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

2. The air we breathe in Catalonia

is a secondary pollutant, that is, it is formed from the combination of several precursor pollutants in certain atmospheric conditions—is not responding to the measures to control it. With respect to this part of the territory, the industrial concentration of El Camp de Tarragona should be highlighted, with Spain’s largest petrochemical complex. Here, volatile organic compounds and other pollutants originating from the production processes used by the va­ rious petrochemical industries, from oil refining to basic chemistry, are kept under special surveillance and control. • On the other hand, there is the area composed of Barcelona and another 39 municipalities around it; while they account for only 2.3% of Catalonia’s total area, their population totals 4.3 million inhabitants (60% of the population of Catalonia). It is one of the most powerful urban areas in the Mediterranean, with logistics and communication infrastructures. These municipalities, which have been declared spe­ cial atmospheric environment protection areas, have persistently ex­ ceeded the thresholds stipulated by the EU for two pollutants: nitrogen

dioxide (NO2) and suspended particulate matter (PM10), although the

levels of PM10 in 2014 have been below the limits. Of the 16 pollutants assessed, 11 met the air quality targets in all areas, and in most of them the levels were considerably below the maximum permitted values. There are only 4 pollutants that do not meet the air

quality targets for 2014: nitrogen dioxide (NO2), tropospheric ozone

(O3), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and suspended particulate matter PM. Amongst the pollutants that deviate from their targets, nitrogen di-

The Air Pollution Monitoring and Forecasting Network in Catalonia (XVPCA) is the tool that allows oxide (NO2) stands out in particular, having exceeded the annual limit us to know with rigor the quality of the air in Catalonia. It currently has 127 measuring points value (aLV) in AQZ 1 (Barcelona Area) and AQZ 2 (Vallès-Baix Llobregat). It is a phenomenon associated with large urban agglomerations and which is caused, to a large extent, by the land transport that is cha­ racteristic of these population agglomerations and associated with the A dual reality in air quality movement of people and goods. Two realities coexist in Catalonia with respect to ambient air quality: In the case of the conurbation of Barcelona, this is compounded by the • On the one hand, there is a part of Catalonia, very large in territory terms emissions generated by the port and airport, in addition to industrial (97.7% of the country) and includes to slightly less than half the popula­ activities related to electricity generation and cement, steel and glass tion (40%), where the air quality is good or very good, with only sporadic manufacture. It is further aggravated by the type of urban development, incidents originating from specific locations, and where currently work is particularly the very high population density and mobility, with narrow,

in progress on developing solutions. Only tropospheric ozone O3—which traffic-packed streets lined by relatively high buildings.

14 15 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 2. The air we breathe in Catalonia Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Map of air quality incidents in Catalonia by air quality zone (AQZ). 2014

Another pollutant that has given values above the air quality targets is tropospheric ozone

(O3). Excessively high values for this parameter are a phenomenon that is often related to rural areas, as the ozone usually attains higher values lee­ ward side of the major urban agglomerations, where the main precursor of tropospheric

AQZ limits ozone, NO2, concentrates, blown by the wind from the metropolitan areas, combining with natural biogenic emissions of volatile com­

pounds (VOCs), together with anthropogenic Structure of the nitrogen dioxide molecule (NO2) emissions associated with the use of fuels and chemical manufacture and use. On the other hand, in the cities, the high levels of nitrogen oxides, together with the reduction in volatile organic compounds, lead to lower ozone con­ centrations. This behaviour and these excessi­ vely high values are common to all Southern Europe. This was the first year, since measurements of this pollutant began in the year 2000, that the

levels of suspended particulate matter Structure of the ozone molecule (O3) with a diameter of less than 10 microns

(PM10) meet all their targets in air quality zones 1 (Barcelona Area) and 2 (Vallès-Baix Llobre­ gat). During previous years, both the annual limit value and the daily limit value had been exceeded. O3 Metals

HCl Hg The progressive fall in suspended particulate matter has also been detected in other re­ Colour of each pollutant if the air gions of Europe and is attributed to the en­ Benzene quality targets are Cl2 vironmentally beneficial effects of application met of the European Directives that enforce use of cleaner technologies in industrial activi­ CO ties and vehicles. The economic crisis, which H2S has led to a reduction in industrial activity and mobility, together with implementation SO of some of the measures contained in the air Real image, obtained with the electron micros- PM10 2 Colour of each pollutant if quality improvement plan, has also contribu­ cope, of suspended particulate matter with a any of the air quality targets ted to reducing emissions. diameter of less than 10 microns (PM ) NO 10 are not met PM2,5 x BaP

16 17 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 2. The air we breathe in Catalonia Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

However, in spite of this, PM10 thresholds were The air we breathe in the conurbation exceeded in Manlleu (AQZ 6, La Plana de Vic), of Barcelona with the combustion of fossil fuels and biomass With its concentration of population, economic have a high population and vehicle density, con­ as the main cause, and in Alcanar (AQZ 15, Les activity and mobility, and the presence of large centrating pollutant emissions in a small area, Terres de l’Ebre), attributable to industrial acti­ logistics infrastructures, together with certain unlike the non-Mediterranean regions, where a vity. In both cases, corrective measures are being constraints of orography, climate and urban more extensive land-use model predominates, developed. structure, the levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and with abundant urban green spaces, giving a The last pollutant that does not meet some of its suspended particulate matter (PM10) regularly ex­ much lower density of inhabitants and vehicles, air quality targets is hydrogen sulphide (H2S), ceed some of the thresholds legislated by the EU which means that the associated emissions are which has recorded values above the half-hourly in the conurbation of Barcelona. Although the distributed over a much larger area. target in AQZ 5 (Central Catalonia). This is a very PM have remained below the limits in recent 10 The other factor that complicates the pollution isolated phenomenon that affects part of the years, the NO levels continue to exceed them. 2 problem in Barcelona and its surroundings is the town of Igualada and is associated with faulty A specific feature of the agglomeration of Bar­ type of inner-city urban development, with na­ ope­ration of a wastewater treatment plant. celona, which impacts on air quality, is its land- rrow streets and relatively high buildings, making Equipment for measuring suspended particulate use model and street and building typologies. it more difficult for pollutants to be dispersed by matter The city of Barcelona and the surrounding towns the wind and natural air currents.

Roof level wind

Background pollution

Recirculating air

Leeward side Windward side

Direct plume

Tall and compact buildings hinder the dispersion of pollutants emitted by urban traffic Viewing the concentration of NOx in the streets of the Eixample in Barcelona

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Inventory of pollutant emissions in the special atmos- Trends in the air quality levels in air quality zones 1 and 2 pheric environment protection area In recent years, the average annual levels of NO2 have remained fairly

The Inventory, created in 2011, provides the necessary information to identify stable, with no significant reductions. On the other hand, the PM10 le­ emissions of the main pollutants disaggregated by pollutant and by sector in vels showed a substantial drop starting in 2008 and a further sharp fall the SPA, and highlights that road transport generates almost half of the NOx after 2012. This can be attributed to three factors: the implementation and PM10 emissions, industry and energy account for 24% of NOx and 21% of of measures to reduce atmospheric emissions, the economic crisis and

PM10, while sea transport generates 14% of NOx and 23% of PM10. favourable weather conditions.

Emissions NOx 2011

Evolution of the annual average values for NO2 6% Aerial transport ALV Maximum AQZ 1 and 2 Annual average AQZ 1 and 2 Minimum AQZ 1 and 2 100 14% 21% Maritime transport Industry 80 5% 3% Domestic Power plants 60

40

51% 20 Road transport 0 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Evolution of the annual average values for PM10 Emissions PM10 2011 ALV Maximum AQZ 1 and 2 Annual average AQZ 1 and 2 Minimum AQZ 1 and 2 1% Aerial transport 100

23% Maritime transport 19% 80 Industry

2% 60 2% Domestic Power plants 40

20 53% 0 Road transport 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

20 21 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 3. Air Quality Action Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

The Air Quality Action Plan in Special Atmospheric Environ- ment Protection Areas approved in September 2014, is the new 3. Air Quality Action Plan instrument for planning, fostering and regulating actions aimed at im­ proving air quality in the special atmospheric environment protection area consisting of Barcelona and another 39 municipalities compri­sing its agglomeration, and whose purpose is to guarantee compliance with the European air quality directives. The Plan defines the timelines for im­ plementing the various actions, the indicators and monitoring mecha­ nisms, the agents responsible for implementation and the stakeholders, and provides for a series of tax measures which will be pooled into a fund to finance air quality improvement actions and, in particular, actions to improve public transport. It also provides guidelines for the municipali­ ties included in the Plan, particularly for those with more than 100,000 inhabitants. The new Plan takes over from the previous improvement Plan (2007- 2010, extended until September 2014), which completed its term without having achieved all of the objectives that had been proposed. It offers a new approach to the essential aspects: • It is a realistic plan, and all the actions contained in it are technically and financially feasible, if there is sufficient social and political will. • It proposes integrated mobility management, addressing both infras­ tructures and mobility services, and promotes a change of model based on public transport and active mobility (walking and cycling). • It advocates clean fuels and electric vehicles in private daily mobility. • It urges the Catalan automotive industry to lead to the manufac­ ture of alternative-drive, low-emission vehicles, following the exam­ ple of the Federal Government of Baden-Württemberg, the German region that is European leader in vehicle manufacture. • It supports the use of the best available technologies (BATs) to re­ duce industrial emissions. • It strengthens continuous emissions monitoring at the main emi­ tting sites within the SPA (thermal power stations, cement, glass and steel production facilities, etc.). • It enables effective measures to be activated during pollution episodes, with restrictions on private vehicle traffic to discourage their use, while providing incentives to use public transport and non-polluting vehicles. In these cases, preventive measures are implemented so that certain levels of pollution are not attained, by means of declarations of pollution episodes, The plan provides for 37 municipal actions; of these, five are specific to municipalities with public information and implementation of the other associated measures. more than 100,000 inhabitants. In the photo, Terrassa, northern edge of the SPA

22 23 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 3. Air Quality Action Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

• It includes new environmental taxation The Plan is structured in eight areas, subdivi­ The local authorities play a leading role in the Municipalities that have been declared measures tied to the emissions of nitrogen ded into 14 objectives that contain 46 general development of some of the Plan’s basic measu­ special atmospheric environment oxi­des, particulate matter and other atmos­ actions and another five to be implemented res. On the one hand, the municipalities with protection areas pheric pollutants generated by commercial avi­ if an environmental pollution episode is de­ more than 100,000 inhabitants are required Badalona Montmeló ation, industry and vehicle traffic in the special clared. Thirty-two measures are proposed to to implement certain mandatory measures but, above all, they have the opportunity to voluntari­ Badia del Vallès Montornès del Vallès protection area, and which will be used primar­ the local authorities and five to the munici­ Barberà del Vallès Pallejà ily to improve public transport, and it endows palities with more than 100,000 inhabitants, ly take extra steps to improve the quality of life of Barcelona Parets del Vallès the Atmospheric Environment Protection of which three are compulsory. It demands a their citizens and of the conurbation as a whole. Castellbisbal Ripollet The agreement made with the Network of Ci­ Castelldefels Rubí Fund. higher level of commitment from all areas of ties and Towns for Sustainability for Cleaner Cerdanyola del Vallès Sabadell government and stipulates co-responsibility of • It aligns with the Catalan Public Health Plan Air is an example of this commitment. The Plan Cornellà de Llobregat Sant Adrià de Besòs all stakeholders in its implementation (Govern­ El Papiol Sant Andreu de la Barca (PINSAP), giving priority to prevention over also takes on board some of the measures in­ intervention and also with the European ment of Catalonia, local authorities, compa­ El Prat de Llobregat Sant Cugat del Vallès cluded in the Spanish Government’s Air Plan. Esplugues de Llobregat Sant Feliu de Llobregat Union’s Cleaner Air for Europe Programme. nies and private citizens). Gavà Sant Fost de Campsentelles The timeline of the Air Quality Action Plan in Granollers Sant Joan Despí Special Atmospheric Environment Protection L’Hospitalet de Llobregat Sant Just Desvern Areas, horizon 2020, provides for implemen­ La Llagosta Sant Quirze del Vallès Municipalities in the special atmospheric environment protection areas tation of the actions in the short and medium Martorell Sant Vicenç dels Horts term, with the goal of creating the necessary Martorelles Santa Coloma de Gramenet Santa Perpètua de Mogoda conditions so that continuing compliance with Molins de Rei Mollet del Vallès Terrassa the legislated air quality levels can be assured by Montcada i Reixac Viladecans 2020, as stated in the guidelines of the new Eu­ Granollers ropean programme Clean Air for Europe. Terrassa Parets d. Vallès Sabadell Mollet Montornès Institutional transversality of the Plan Santa d. Vallès Montmelód. Vallès Sant Perpètua Quirze d. Martorelles Barberà de Mogoda Vallès d. Vallès Air quality Badia La Llagosta Sant Fost de EU Rubí d. Vallès Ripollet Campsentelles directives Montcada Catalonia Castellbisbal Cerdanyola i Reixach Martorell Sant Cugat del Vallès del Vallès Badalona Sant Andreu 1st AQ Plan El Santa Coloma de la Barca Papiol de Gramenet 2007-2010 Spain Pallejà Molins Sant Adrià Air Quality Action Plan SPA de Rei del Besòs Sant Just Barcelona in Special Atmospheric Sant Vicenç Desvern Air Plan Sant Feliu de dels Horts Esplugues County limits Llobregat Local Environment de Llobregat Sant Joan Despi l’Hospitalet Catalonia Protection Areas Cornellà de Llobregat • 8 areas de Llobregat UMP • 14 objectives

Viladecans • 46 general actions El Prat de Gavà Llobregat • 5 actions, in environmental pollution episodes Castelldefels • 37 actions by local bodies, The area of the Plan in Catalonia including 5 for municipalities > 100.000 inhabitants

24 25 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 3. Air Quality Action Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Governance of the Plan Public information and participation process in preparation of the Plan

Citizen participation (2011): • Participation of local authorities • Creation of the Expert Committee • Dialogue with industry representatives • Interdepartmental coordination

Public information (November 2013): • Local authorities • Employers’ associations, companies and trade unions • Environmental organisations • Political parties • Other departments and bodies in the Catalan Government

In order to guarantee implementation of the Ministry of the Environment. It is chaired by the Of the 295 allegations submitted by 25 bodies: Plan, the Government of Catalonia has created Director-General and its main functions are to • 274 (93%) have been accepted three bodies that perform complementary func­ evaluate­ the follow-up reports, report on the tions: measures­ applied, and suggest and give its opi­ • 21 (7%) have been rejected nion regarding technical proposals. The Governing Committee: its members are representatives from the Government of The Expert Committee, chaired by the Se­ The Plan’s guidance document was initially approved by the Govern­ Catalonia and Barcelona City Council, who are cretary of Environment and Sustainability, is ment of Catalonia in September 2011 but, as it was not accepted by responsible for managing the Plan’s measures. composed of acknowledged experts in the fields the European Union, it was completely rewritten; as a result of this pro­ It is chaired by the Director-General for Envi­ related to atmospheric pollution, health and in­ cess, an intense process of debate and dialogue was undertaken with ronmental Quality. Its main functions are to dustrial technologies and mobility. It is the Go­ the EU’s services, Barcelona Provincial Council’s Network of Municipa­ approve the technical criteria for implementing vernment’s advisory body for implementing the lities, neighbourhood associations, trade unions, associations and the Plan, report on the actions that have been Plan and may make proposals and suggestions, companies operating in the automotive and manufacturing industries, implemented, evaluate the follow-up report, evaluate reports and report on the results of re­ also including the proposals of Parliament Motion 72/X, concerning assess any proposals that may be made and pro­ search in related fields. actions on industry, mobility and environmental taxation. Finally, the pose amendments of the Plan to the Minister. Plan has been validated by the Expert Committee, before being appro­ ved by the Government of Catalonia. The Barcelona conurbation air quali- ty Forum includes representatives from lo­ The review process has lasted 3 years. During this period, a large num­ cal government, road, sea and air transport ber of the measures forming part of the draft Plan have been put into associations, managers who apply the Plan’s practice, experimentally or definitively, even though the Plan has not measures and representatives from the Spanish yet been finally approved.

26 27 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

4. Sectors and actions of the Plan

28 29 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Transport and mobility

Road traffic is the main source of pollution by nitrogen oxides and suspended particulate matter in the SPA. The main causes are the high Transport and mobility volume of traffic, the growth in the number of vehicles and the growing proportion of diesel vehicles. The road transport sector and mobility in the SPA accounted for (2011):

• 51% of NOx emissions

• 53% of PM10 emissions

Percentage of NOx road transport emissions

51% Road transport 49% Other sectors

Percentage of PM10 road transport emissions

53% Road transport 47% Other sectors

Between 2004 and 2011, the number of diesel-engined passenger cars increased by 40.9% while that of petrol-engined cars decreased by 7.3%.

30 31 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Transport and mobility

Highlighted actions: Map of annual NOx emissions by road transport in the special protection area (2011) Improve urban mobility conditions and support more rational mobility Granollers Terrassa

Parets Sabadell Promote public transport d. Vallès Mollet Montmeló An attractive collective public transport system d. Vallès Montornès (bus, metro, tram and rail) that guarantees fre­ Sant Santa Perpètua d. Vallès Quirze d. de Mogoda Martorelles quent service, commercial speed and an exten­ Vallès Barberà Badia d. Vallès sive interurban distribution network with good La Llagosta The T-Mobility project and the availability of d. Vallès Sant Fost de urban connections, is the best alternative to Rubí Campsentelles subsidised travel cards are instruments that Ripollet the mobility model currently prevailing in urban enable prices to be discounted and adjusted to Castellbisbal Cerdanyola Montcada Martorell agglomerations for both urban and interurban the specific needs of each regular user to in­ del Vallès i Reixac routes. Accordingly, the Plan gives priority to this crease the share of public transport in overall Santa Coloma Badalona transport system and, on the one hand, corrects mobility. T-Mobility must provide the means for Sant Cugat de Gramenet Sant Andreu del Vallès structural elements to guarantee financial vi­ adapting the mobility pricing system to the le­ de la Barca El ability and, on the other, works to improve the vels of pollution, particularly during declarations Papiol service to attract more users. of environmental episodes. Molins Pallejà de Rei Sant Adrià del Besòs

Sant Just Sant Feliu de Desvern Barcelona Sant Vicenç Llobregat dels Horts Esplugues NO 2011 Cornellà de de Llobregat X Llobregat (t/(0,5km x 0,5km)) l’Hospitalet de < 1 Sant Joan Despi Llobregat 5

10

15 Viladecans 20 Gavà El Prat de Llobregat 30

50

Castelldefels > 50

32 33 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Transport and mobility

Air protection urban areas (APUA) Encouraging walking or cycling for daily mobility

The town councils have a vital role to play in plementation of the Workbike (using bicycles to Active mobility systems, that is, walking or cy­ improving the quality of the air we breathe. The commute to work as a variable pay criterion), cling, must regain the importance they once local authorities are key agents in urban mo­ awareness-raising campaigns to turn off vehi­ had in urban mobility, adapting to user and trip bility, because of both their exclusive jurisdiction cles that are stopped for more than 1 minute type. in local traffic and their powers in road impro­ (similar to a manual start-stop technology), ins­ The AQAP, horizon 2020, seeks to calm down vements and town planning. The AQAP, horizon pect exhaust emissions of vehicles that some­ traffic, create continuous infrastructures for 2020, incorporates the precept of the Spanish times are above those permitted, linking them to safe daily mobility by walking or cycling, and Air Quality Law and requires the local councils of the implementation of two mandatory actions: promote the use of bicycles by planning an ur­ towns with more than 100,000 inhabitants to • Municipal taxation of blue and green ban cycling network connected to the interur­ draw up their respective municipal plans for im­ parking zones, with positive discrimina­ ban network, secure bike parks, and generali­ proving air quality which, under no circumstan­ tion of low-emission vehicles, in accordance zing use of the bicycle to commute to work as a ces, may go against the Catalan Government’s with the criteria defined by the AQAP, horizon flexible salary item for all workers, as some com­ AQAP, horizon 2020 or lower the requirements 2020, and accredited by means of a sticker panies are already doing, with car-type vehicles of the mandatory measures stipulated in the obtained via the Ecovia’t portal operated by for certain workers. The Ministry of Territory and Plan. For municipalities with fewer inhabitants, the Ministry of Territory and Sustainability. Sustainability has implemented the Workbike, a broad spectrum of measures is proposed to be “More bike, less pollution” project. It is a applied as required by the specific features of • Reduce pollution in school zones, gi­ demonstration service which provides bicycles each municipality. ving priority to the APUAs where there are and support to government employees to en­ schools, so that all local traffic is move away The creation of urban areas with pro- courage use of the bicycle for daily mobility bet­ for more than 50 m from classrooms. tected atmosphere (APUA) is a manda­ ween home and work. This project is also being tory action for municipalities with more than Other municipal measures for reducing air pollu­ implemented at the Ministries of Health and the 100,000 inhabitants in the special protection tion are: improvement and hierarchization­ of Interior, with synergistic connotations between area. It consists of delimiting densely populated the local road network, creation of a safe, con­ safety, pollution and health that are also inte­ urban areas where the air quality is particular­ tinuous urban cycling network that extends to grated in the Catalan Government’s Interde­ ly critical and applying measures to restrict use the interurban connections between the muni­ partmental Public Health Plan. of the most polluting vehicles, stimulate use cipalities in the metropolitan area, programming­ of clean vehicles and incorporate the cleanest traffic lights to give priority to public transport, The Workbike is a demonstration project to public transport fleet. The creation of APUA creation of priority loading and unloading are­ encourage the use of bicycles in trip from home to work areas should not suffer constraints arising from as for transport fleets with the environmental regulatory inflexibility and the long periods for quality emblem, regulation of goods distribution­ approving new plans, as all municipalities in the times and promotion of school routes, road SPA have approved acoustic capacity maps. The safety education campaigns and promoting areas with most traffic and highest population non-motorized means of transport. Dynamic speed management to reduce traffic congestion and pollution densities are shown clearly on these maps and there is no need to perform further studies that Depending on prevailing pollution levels and, in the level of pollution. Varying the speed limit de­ could voluntarily or involuntarily delay their im­ particular, the persistence of environmental epi­ pending on the level of traffic congestion is the plementation. sodes, the speed will be limited to 90 km/h and most effective measure for reducing pollution An effort will be made to associate the creation­ the public will be informed that it is an environ­ during rush hour periods; this measure will be of APUAs with other lines of action, such as im­ mental measure to prevent further increases in applied daily to reduce traffic-related pollution.

34 35 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Transport and mobility

Greener vehicle fleet Discounts at tolls in the metropolitan area for cleaner vehicles and access to the BUS-VAO-ECO lane The goal of this action is to provide an incen­ tive to renew the vehicle fleet associated with private commuter travel towards a less pollu­ ting and less noisy fleet, giving clear signals that avoid the environmental inconsistencies or shortcomings associated with the fuel or ve­ hicle registration taxes, for which no changes Given the low occupancy of private vehicles for are foreseen in the short term, in spite of the commuter travel, where 4 out of every 5 vehi­ warnings from the EU, the WHO and even the cles have only one occupant, the driver, there is a vehicle manufacturers and automobile clubs need to implement measures that provide incen­ about the pollution caused by a highly dieseli­ tives for people to share cars to go to their place zed, ageing vehicle population. of work or study. These incentives can focus on Cleaner technologies such as electric vehicles, travel time and monetary cost. The BUS-VAO- natural gas, small-engine hybrid vehicles, and ECO lane enables queue-free entry and exit from Electric propulsion or alternative fuels such as natural gas in public transport networks is also low-emission vehicles can apply for dis­ the city of Barcelona, thereby shortening travel essential to combat urban air pollution counts at the entry or exit tolls within the metro­ time. At the same time, vehicles with more than politan area included in the special atmospheric 3 occupants can benefit from discounts up to protection declaration. For local zero-emission 40% at the tolls in the metropolitan area. Promote the modernization of pub- Emblem of Guarantee of Environ- vehicles, the discounts can be as much as 100%; To obtain entitlement to this measure, vehicles lic vehicle fleets, applying green pro- mental Quality of vehicle fleets for the other vehicles, the discount should not must obtain Ecovia’T certification and registra­ curement criteria This is a voluntary cer­ exceed 30%. These vehicles are entitled to use tion, which is provided by the Ministry of Terri­ Renew public vehicle fleets applying the crite­ tification the obtaining the BUS-VAO-ECO lane. tory and Sustainability. ria contained in the Green procurement guide of which is conditional for vehicles, which includes greening guidelines upon compliance with for vehicle contracting to be used by the Cata­ a series of environmen­ lan Government’s departments and public sec­ tal criteria which must tor companies. This Guide requires companies be accredited. Another taking part in public procurement tenders to in­ requirement is that a clude in the tender the undertaking that 30% of significant part of the the vehicles will be driven by alternative power­ vehicles in the fleet, de­ supplies and have low pollutant emissions, in pending on type (car, accordance with the AQAP, horizon 2020, cri­ taxi, van, bus or lorry), have low emissions of teria for eligibility for the Emblem of Guarantee atmospheric pollutants, of Environmental Quality of vehicle fleets. These using fleet and route management systems and criteria are published in the Official Journal of the the drivers have received training in efficient Government of Catalonia. driving. At present, 4,500 vehicles in Catalonia The Plan also extends this condition to heavy belong to fleets accredited with the Emblem of vehicle fleets that provide public services. Guarantee of Environmental Quality.

36 37 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Transport and mobility

Inspections for the most polluting ve- hicles With the goal of detecting the most polluting vehicles on the roads in the special protection area and requiring them to be serviced to reduce emissions into the atmosphere. The inspection campaigns for the most polluting vehicles are intended to measure the exhaust Subsidies on the purchase of emissions of the vehicles and check that they do low-emission and electric vehicles, not exceed the stipulated opacity limits. The ve­ support for energy diversification by hicles that may be inspected include cars, vans, the taxi service and increased num- lorries and buses powered by compression-igni­ Electric vehicles have 100% discount on the road tolls of the Government. ber of taxi stands tion engines (Diesel cycle). Other ECO vehicles have a 30% discount, in conjunction with another 30% if three or more people traveling The metropolitan taxi fleet currently has more These campaigns also serve to educate and than 11,000 vehicles. In this traditionally diesel make the public aware of the pollutants emitted vehicle population, the use of hybrid vehicles is by vehicles and the importance of regularly ser­ Support for electric vehicles volvement of government and corporations. In becoming more common, with a trend towards vicing the vehicle or driving it efficiently in order this area, we support the implementation of diversification with natural gas and LPG. These The electric vehicle plays an essential role in a­ to save fuel and reduce emissions. service stations offering cleaner fuels and ba­ are vehicles that clock up more than 50,000 km chieving total eradication of local pollutant emi­ ttery charging points, vehicle purchase incenti­ Since the first inspections of polluting vehicles every year and, consequently, contribute signi­ ssions. Electricity generation by power plants is ves, discounts at tolls that can be up to 100%, (September 2013) to now (January 2015), ficantly to pollutant emissions by road traffic. more efficient than the internal combustion en­ eight campaigns have been carried out in seven The AQAP implements a series of subsidies and gine. In addition, pollutant emissions at particular access to the BUS-VAO-ECO lane, prioritization of the 40 municipalities included in the special support lines for the sector that, to date, have points in the electricity generation process must in green public procurement, etc. atmospheric environment protection area: Sant enabled 25 electric vehicles to be included in the comply with very strict regulations that require use As regards vehicle charging in parking spaces, Cugat del Vallès, La Llagosta, Cornellà de Llobre­ fleet, many of them made at the Nissan plant in of pollution reduction technologies whose cost is the recent approval of the amendment to the gat, Castelldefels, Badalona, Sant Andreu de la Zona Franca. It is an example of how the cha­ too high for these small mobile pollution produ­ Horizontal Property Law within the Catalan Civil Barca and Santa Perpètua de Mogoda. llenge of reducing pollution can support cleaner cers otherwise known as automobiles. Code makes it easier to create charging points technologies and job creation in Catalonia. The duration of the measuring campaigns has Beyond the aspects that have already been by eliminating the need for a majority vote in been 4-5 days in each municipality. Of the 394 Light commercial vehicles used for urban goods mentioned, introduction of the electric vehicle favour by the building owners, with a simple re­ vehicles measured in all 7 municipalities, 4.3% distribution is another area where a lot can be is also being developed by the public-private quest to the property administrator being suffi­ exceeded the stipulated opacity limits. Most of done. It is planned to provide similar support for sector platform LIVE (Logistics for the Imple­ cient. It is a strategic measure towards generali­ these vehicles were more than six years old. this sector too. mentation of Efficient Vehicles), with joint in­ zed use of electric vehicles.

38 39 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Specific logistics areas: the port and the airport

The Port of Barcelona has contributed to the SPA (2011): • 14% of NO emissions Specific logistics areas: x • 23% of PM10 emissions. Percentage of maritime transport NO emissions the port and the airport x

14% Port 86% Other sectors

Percentage of maritime transport PM10 emissions

23% Port 77% Other sectors

The Barcelona-El Prat Airport has contributed to the SPA (2011):

• 6% of NOx emissions

• 1% of PM10 emissions.

Percentage of aerial transport NOx emissions Aerial view of the Barcelona’s port and airport are two basic logistics infrastructures Port of Barcelona. for the Catalan economy. Both the port and the airport form part of the Its proximity to the agglomeration of Barcelona and that is both their best asset and their 6% Airport urban agglomeration biggest constraint, as this forces them to be particularly conscientious 94% motivates that the in minimizing negative externalities, especially noise and emissions. Other port activity affects air sectors quality of Barcelona The port performs functions related to trade, passenger, logistics and energy; it has become a hub for strategic traffic, such as automo­ biles and hydrocarbons, with the convergence of volume, variety and Percentage of aerial transport PM emissions high-value loads. It is the world’s fourth largest cruise port and the lar­ 10 gest in the Mediterranean region. Barcelona - El Prat Airport, located only 15 km from the centre of 1% Airport Barcelona and 3 km from the port, handles more than 37 million pa­ 99% ssengers a year and is the second largest airport in Spain and the ninth Other largest in Europe in terms of number of passengers; the tendency is for sectors continued strong growth.

40 41 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Specific logistics areas: the port and the airport

Highlighted actions:

Support for rail freight transport Promote the use of LNG (liquefied natural gas) and other alternative The goal pursued by this action is to increase fuels in vessels, lorries and working the share of rail freight transport to absorb part machinery in the Port of Barcelona of the freight currently transported by road and and its surroundings avoid emissions by lorries, which travel an ave­ rage of 30 km within the special protection area; A port does not operate in isolation but forms the forecast is to attain a 25% market share for part of the global shipping system, and the rail; investment in this area corresponds to the vessels that dock there have to use systems Spanish Central Administration. The share of rail that are compatible with all the ports they use. freight transport has grown from 2.6% of total As part of its alternative fuel strategy approved traffic in 2007 to values above 10% in 2012. in late 2012, the European Union promotes liquefied natural gas for the vessels and heavy goods vehicles that operate within the port. The Port of Barcelona is well equipped for this option and it is also an opportunity to position the port on the main routes that will use LNG Aerial view of the Barcelona-El Prat Airport. The municipality of El Prat de as fuel, thanks to its capability to supply the Llobregat receiver most direct affections on air quality of the air activity new fuel via the existing regasification plant. At present, a pilot test is currently in progress, using LNG in the auxiliary engines of a ferry. The auxiliary engines are used during approach to the harbour and mooring, which are the Monitor the Airport Emission ope­rations that have most impact on urban air Reduction Plan quality. By installing electricity, power and precondi­ support equipment, and driving vehicles that use Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is already a com­ tioned air supplies for the planes at the termi­ more efficient and cleaner alternative fuels. petitive alternative to the hydrocarbons used nal boarding gates, planes can turn off their The applicable legislation in this area is Catalan until now for sea and road goods transport. auxiliary power units, reducing noise, fuel con­ Use of LNG reduces NO emissions by 85% and Law 12/2014 concerning the tax on the emi­ x sumption and the associated pollutant emis­ ssion of nitrogen oxides (NO ) into the atmos­ those of particulate matter and sulphur oxides sions. x phere by commercial aviation, which applies (SOx) by almost 100%, and enables compli­ ance with international emission restriction The actions for reducing emissions are: reduc­ environmental taxation measures to the planes standards. The European Union wishes all sea ing taxiing and waiting times, applying certain that operate in Barcelona - El Prat Airport on

and river ports in the main Trans-European ope­rational actions such as continuous descent the basis of their NOx emissions during landing, network in transport (TEN-T) to have LNG su­ approaches, promoting free or low-cost park­ taxiing and take-off. This part of the Plan is al­ pply points available before 2021. ing for clean vehicles, modernizing the ground ready being applied.

42 43 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Industry and energy

Industry and energy Industry, combustion and cogeneration contributed to the SPA (2011):

• 24% of NOx emissions Main industrial establishments that emit atmospheric pollutants • 21% of PM emissions. into the special atmospheric environment protection areas 10

Percentage of industry and power plants NOx emissions

Granollers

Terrassa 24% 76% Industry and power plants Parets Other Sabadell d. Vallès sectors

Mollet Montmeló d. Vallès Montornès Sant Santa Perpètua d. Vallès Quirze d. de Mogoda Martorelles Vallès Barberà Percentage of industry and power plants PM10 emissions Badia d. Vallès d. Vallès La Llagosta Rubí Sant Fost de Castellbisbal Ripollet Campsentelles Montcada Cerdanyola Martorell i Reixac 21% del Vallès 79% Industry and power plants Other Sant Cugat Santa Coloma Badalona sectors Sant Andreu del Vallès de Gramenet de la Barca El Papiol Molins Pallejà de Rei Sant Adrià del Besòs

Sant Just Barcelona Desvern Law 20/2009, of 4 December, concerning tial areas that are too close to industrial areas, Sant Vicenç Sant Feliu de dels Horts environmental prevention and monitoring of means that once again industry and population Llobregat Cornellà de activities, provides for systems to prevent and are closer together, so that, even today, major Llobregat Esplugues l’Hospitalet de Power plants monitor the pollution discharged by industrial industrial activities adjoin populated areas. de Llobregat Llobregat Industrial combustion activities, and the recent basic Spanish regula­ In addition, a process has taken place in which Sant Joan Ceramic tions concerning integrated pollution preven­ traditional technologies and industries have Despi Printing tion and control require them to adapt their ac­ been replaced by others that are equivalent but Cement production tivities to this new legislation in order to comply cleaner and more efficient, with the application Viladecans Paper, wood and food with the atmospheric emission limits. of the best available technologies (BATs). This is Glass production Gavà El Prat de In recent decades, the industries that used to be the case of the thermal power stations, which Llobregat Pharmaceutical industry located in our cities have moved out to the out­ have been replaced by combined power gene­ Solvent use skirts, reducing the effect of their emissions on ration cycles, replacing more polluting fuels with Chemical industry the population. Another important event was others that are cleaner, such as natural gas. In­ Castelldefels Metal production the replacement of coal as main energy source dustry-specific environmental regulation is also Waste by others, such as gas and electricity. However,­ facilitating the transition towards a cleaner and the growth of suburban belts, with residen­ more competitive industry.

44 45 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Industry and energy

Highlighted actions:

Alignment of authorizations to the new environmental regulations

Implementation of the inspection and Electronic register of atmospheric Application of best available tech- control programme in the SPA (2014- emission sources and inventory of in- niques (BAT) 2016) dustrial emissions All industrial establishments affected by the in- The overall objective of the Integrated Environ­ The register of atmospheric emission sourc­ dustrial emissions Directive must comply with the mental Inspection Plan in Catalonia, for the pe­ es of establishments classified in the catalog emission values associated with best available riod 2014-2016, is to verify the degree of com­ of potentially atmospheric polluting activities techniques. This means that companies have to pliance with environmental regulations and with (CAPCA) has been modernized by royal Decree implement improvements in process -through the requirements imposed in the integrated envi­ 100/2011. Today this register is electronic and primary measures such as low-emission burners – ronmental authorizations of the establishments allows more easily control of characteristics of and also secondary at the end of pipe measures, available technologies for efficient use of energy included in their field of application, and to detect point sources and of results of measurements for with the installation of pollution reduction techno­ inclu­ded in the industrial emissions Directive. activities that are neither authorized nor evalua­ different pollu­tants. It also allows better availa­ logies, such as fabric filters to retain particles. ted, in spite of the requirement to do so, seeking bility of data. Electricity generation and cement as ultimate goal the protection of Catalonia’s en­ Provide incentives to improve energy manufacture with air quality criteria vironment and assuring sustainable development. Atmospheric Emissions Network of efficiency Agreements have been signed with the electri­ Companies in the special atmospheric environ­ Catalonia (XEAC) A guide has been published for efficient use of ment protection area: city generation industry and the cement manu­ XEAC is the tool for analysis and control for mo­ energy in industry that synthesizes from a prac­ facture industry to activate action protocols in • 140 industrial establishments subject to Di­ nitoring continuously and in real time the pollu­ tical viewpoint the guidance document for the the event of pollution episodes. Thus, 3 scena­ rective 2010/75/EU, of 24 November, con­ tants emitted by sources that have the greatest best available technologies (BAT) for energy effi­ rios will be established, one providing advance cerning industrial emissions (IED Directive). potential impact on the atmosphere such as ce­ ciency in Europe, assessing the technologies cu­ warning of an environmental pollution episode • More than 1,000 industrial establishments ment plant, glassmaking, petrochemical, inci­ rrently used, particularly in the industries listed in and the other two related directly to the detec­ classified in the Catalogue of activities that neration plant and other industries. All of them Annex I of the industrial emissions Directive, which tion of certain threshold values exceeded for potentially pollute the atmosphere (CAPCA). need to monitor emissions continuously. are those that can have greatest environmental NO2 and the declaration of environmental epi­ impact. Even though it can be addressed speci­ sodes pollution. A similar process has been be­ fically for each industry sector, and even for each gun with the steel industry. Automatic measurement subsector, efficient use of energy has certain as­ pects that are common to all of them and it is Implementation of simulation models these that are included in this guide: Data Management System for the atmospheric dispersion of in- • BAT for management: design, control, audits, etc., dustrial pollutants • BAT in consumer systems: combustions, mo­ Within the framework of this action, the mo­ tors, heat recovery, etc., dels will enable air quality levels to be forecast, Directorate General of targeting companies’ technical personnel and predicting possible environmental episodes of Environmental Quality professionals working in industrial processes, pollution­ by PM10 and NOx at least for the spe­ Operation scheme of Atmospheric Emissions Network of Catalonia (XEAC) faci­litating access to knowledge about the best cial atmospheric environment protection area.

46 47 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Domestic and Awareness-raising, education, information residential and communication

The domestic sector has contributed to the SPA Practically half of the emissions of nitrogen oxi­ (2011): des and suspended particulate matter are from sources of emission over which private citizens • 5% of NOx emissions have control, that is, vehicles and the domestic • 2% of PM emissions. 10 sector. The other half corresponds to the indus­ trial sector and electricity generation, port and

Percentage of domestic NOx emissions airport activity and, in the case of suspended particulate matter, mining and public works. This highlights how the responsibility for emi­ ssions is distributed and, therefore, provides the 5% Highlighted actions: key to improving air quality. 95% Domestic Highlighted actions: Other No one can ignore their responsibility, starting sectors with the Government of Catalonia, whose duty Improve domestic energy efficiency in improving air quality is to carry out planning Information provided to the populati- and saving and provide incentives for support, inspection and monitoring. However, on on air quality in Catalonia less polluting fuels effectiveness of the measures enacted by the • Creation of a websites sections at the Mi­ Percentage of domestic PM emissions 10 Government to achieve satisfactory levels of air nistry of Territory and Sustainability: In recent years, the domestic sector has subs­ quality is conditional upon the co-responsibility www.qualitatdelaire.cat, www.airemes.net tantially reduced its emissions: however, there is and commitment of the other agents, parti­ still a long way to go in the area of energy effi­ • Aire.cat.app. To find out the quality of the air cularly the local councils, but also the Spanish ciency and minimizing emissions from air con­ being breathed at any given time and in any 2% Administration, companies and, with a two-fold ditioning and the main household appliances. given location. 98% Domestic role, private citizens, as their habits in mobility The regulation of air conditioning in shops and Other and domestic activities have an effect on the • Dissemination of information and good municipal services also has a significant contri­ sectors quality of the air we breathe. As users of this practices on air quality on the social me­ bution to make in this area. air, they are also the main agent pressuring the dia, particularly Twitter, with the hashtags other agents, whether these be government #qualitataire, #actuem and #airemesnet authorities or companies. The domestic sector does not have a very signi­ Renovation of buildings • Creating a virtual showcase with documen­ Accordingly, it is the Government’s responsibi­ tation and specific air quality information: ficant weight in total emissions. However, it is Although it forms part of efficiency, rehabilita­ lity and obligation, applying transparency and http://femairemesnet.webnode.com important because of its spatial concentration tion and renovation of buildings deserves a se­ environmental information criteria, to foster in highly densely populated urban areas where parate mention because it has not always been general education about atmospheric pollution pollutant dispersion is very slow. In this sector, given the importance it is due. Actions such as in order to achieve the engagement of all stake­ a large part of the emissions are concentrated the plans for renovating buildings’ windows, holders. in the coldest months, in a short period of time, openings and sun protection, or the more am­ and, for this reason, their real weight in total bitious Catalan building renovation strategy, will emissions during this period is higher than its have a considerable effect in reducing emissions annual percentage would lead one to think. by the domestic sector.

48 49 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Green taxation applied to improving air quality and supporting the green economy

Information provided to the popula- Awareness raising and education Support for economic development ting vehicles powered by alternative systems and tion about environmental pollution with implementation of the AQAP, fuels, where the electric motorcycle can also play • Sponsor the actions of the Sustainable and episodes a major role, considering the long history of mo­ Safe Mobility Week with the goal of disse­ horizon 2020’s measures torcycle manufacture in Catalonia. • An immediate information procedure coordi­ minating and supporting actions within the The Strategy for improving air quality in the nated with radio stations, local television cha­ framework of the Air Quality Action Plan in agglomeration­ of Barcelona is not against cars The key strategies for generating demand for nnels, regional television and the online press. Special Atmospheric Environment Protection or industry but against the pollution they ge­ clean­er vehicles include the proposals formulated Areas. nerate, which exceeds the load capacity of the during the participation process for developing the • Special emphasis on the social media. Plan for the National Association of Vehicle Ma­ • Organize visits for schools, associations and receiving environment. Nor does it seek to slow • Use of the information dissemination media other groups to the mobile immission unit down the economy. On the contrary, it can be an nufacturers (ANFAC) and consist of purchase in­ provided by transport operators: TransMed. and the booths of the Air Pollution Monito­ opportunity, the stimulus that different indus­ centives, urban mobility policies, battery charging ring and Forecasting Network, particularly in tries (automotive, ICT, logistics...) need to acce­ infrastructures and specific taxation with positive the municipalities of the SPAs, as an informa­ lerate towards a green, modern, competitive discrimination for cleaner vehicles. Fostering good practices in activities tion and awareness-raising resource. economy, driven by technological development, and services increased efficiency in the use of resources and • Prepare educational material for schools • Development of informational material on energy, and reducing negative externalities. Green taxation applied to improving and specific awareness-raising material for good practices, activities or services that re­ air quality families about good practices, tips and pollu­ A large market is opening up for whoever can duce pollution. tion reduction possibilities and distribute it deliver solutions to pollution, noise and conges­ The air we breathe is a public commodity which • Availability of efficient driving courses. through the Plan dissemination and aware­ tion problems in urban areas around the world, must be preserved and, as such, funds must be ness-raising actions performed. and this is the challenge on which it is wished to allocated under Government policies that guaran­ focus the future of the automotive industry and tee monitoring of air quality and the implementa­ • In partnership with the Catalan Traffic Ser­ sustainable mobility. The goal is to put research, tion of suitable measures to attain the levels stipu­ vice, dissemination of driving tips for cleaner innovation and the best technology at the ser­ lated in European environmental legislation and by air using the high capacity road network’s in­ vice of cleaner air and minimum noise impact, the World Health Organization. formation panels. and commit to new models of mobility in which The distinctive feature of the AQAP is the fact that it • Distribution of 50,000 travel card holders rational use of the automobile is called to play a includes specific environmental taxation measures. “More Public Transport, Less Pollution” major role. The goal of these measures is to obtain revenues and vinyl wrapping of a FGC, TRAM and bus The AQAP may become that driving force for the from the pollution emitted by certain industries units with the same message. sustainable mobility industry in Catalonia that to finance public expenditure and investment in is foreseen in the Industrial strategy for Catalo­ protecting the atmospheric environment; to foster nia, which views the sustainable mobility-related actions in public and private industrial facilities industries as one of the Catalan economy’s top aimed at reducing the levels of pollutant emissions seven industries. The Plan provides a decisive into the atmosphere and, in general, to implement stimulus for the Catalan automotive industry, mobility model-related policies to prevent pollution pushing it to lead the manufacture of less pollu­ and improve air quality.

50 51 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 4. Sectors and actions of the Plan Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Highlighted actions: Action during environmental pollution episodes

Creation of funding mechanisms for Other tax measures Exposure to atmospheric pollutants may be long- inform about and reduce emissions of nitrogen improving air quality term with moderately high concentrations. In this dioxide and particulate matter with a diameter of The AQAP guarantees that differentiated pricing case, the air quality thresholds are exceeded on a less than 10 microns. The Catalan Law 12/2014, of 10 October, currently applied at the tolls in the metropolitan year-round basis. To restore air quality, it will be ne­ concerning the tax on nitrogen oxide emi­ area for vehicles with the Ecovia’t label granted cessary to apply structural measures, implementing ssions into the atmosphere by commercial by the Ministry of Territory and Sustainability, all the measures set forth in the AQAP before 2020. Highlighted actions: aviation, the tax on gas and particulate ma­ and also for high occupancy vehicles (occupan­ tter emissions into the atmosphere by indus- cy +3), will be maintained while the SPA decla­ Very high, short-lasting concentrations with a cu­ try and the tax on electricity production by ration is in force. A 30% and 40%, respectively mulative duration not exceeding 18 h a year in Public information: the case of the NO or 35 days for fine particulate nuclear power plants, taxes, among other as­ discounts, can be added together. In the case x • Actions aimed at informing the public about pects, polluting emissions of nitrogen oxides into of zero-emission electric vehicles, with total matter generate declarations of environmental environmental pollution episodes. episodes. In this case, intensive, short-term mea­ the atmosphere by commercial aviation during co-responsibility with cleaner urban air, the dis­ • General advice for the public. take-off and landing at the airports located in counts can be 100%. sures must be applied. The term we use is environ­ • Support from the Public Transport Informa­ territory declared to be a special atmospheric en­ mental pollution episode. It is planned that the municipalities with more tion Centre, TransMet. vironmental protection area, and the emissions An environmental pollution episode starts when than 100,000 inhabitants will modify their of certain substances generated in the industrial low atmospheric dispersion occurs concurrently • Restriction to 90 km/h speed limit on mo­ parking meter rates to give a discount to vehicles facilities classified in Annex I.1 of the Law con­ with high pollutant emissions by road traffic, in­ torways and dual carriageways with imple­ with Ecovia’t certification. cerning environmental prevention and control of dustry, port and airport activities. mentation of the variable speed limit. combustion activities and facilities with a total Lastly, it is planned to study a Catalan tax on the An environmental episode is declared when it is thermal power output greater than 20 MW. atmospheric pollution generated by commer­ 3 Specific action agreements in the fo- expected to exceed the limit value of 200 µg/m llowing sectors: With this measure, the Catalan Government cial and private vehicles travelling within the for nitrogen dioxide at a given number of stations aligns itself with other leading countries that SPA, using 90% of the revenues obtained to in the Air Pollution Monitoring and Forecast- • Industry (cement, steel and glass). have started to phase out the subsidies recei­ finance public transport in the same area and ing Network in Catalonia (XVPCA) or, in excep­ • Energy (combined cycles). ved by more contaminant energy sources, such the remaining 10% to support company vehi­ tional cases, when another situation requires this. as oil, coal and, to a lesser extent, natural gas. cle use plans, to implement equivalent Workbike • Port (measures currently being negotiated). During 2015, it is planned to add six automatic The International Monetary Fund highlights the schemes to the flexible pay systems currently • Airport (measures currently being negotiated). fine particulate matter measurement points to high cost of subsidizing externalities in terms of applied to other more polluting modes of trans­ the Surveillance Network, which would operate During these periods (which have an average atmospheric pollution, crowded roads, accidents port, and to guarantee subsidies for renovating alongside the four that are already functioning. duration of 5 days a year), differential mana­ and climate change generated by these energy intensive use fleets such as taxis and distribution gement of the transport modes and mobility This will enable us to give real-time information to sources, which becomes even higher when the vehicles, giving priority to electric vehicles and, infrastructures will be intensified, once the the public via the Aire.cat. app and also to declare cost incurred by the effects of atmospheric pollu­ to a lesser extent, low-emission vehicles. T-Mobi­lity system comes on stream, as follows: episodes for high particulate levels. tion on health are also factored in. In short, the AQAP seeks to address the need to • Public transport: T-Mobility will generate an It should be noted that the activation of environ­ phase out the subsidies on more polluting fuels immediate discount of about 40% on the nor­ mental pollution episodes is based solely on en­ Fund for the protection of the atmos- and, in particular, oil-based fuels, channelling mal price for journeys within the special protec­ vironmental criteria, never on health criteria. The pheric environment these funds towards cleaner mobility systems tion area that are integrated within the Barcelo­ hourly limit value of 200 µg/m3 may be exceeded and energies. na Metropolitan Transport Authority. The same Law creates and endows the Fund for 18 hours a year for each measurement point. for the protection of the atmospheric The activation threshold defined above is conside­ • Toll rates in the special protection area will environment, an instrument whose purpose rably below the alert threshold of 400 µg/m3 over be increased 25% for all vehicles that are not is to guarantee, with maximum transparency, three consecutive hours stipulated in the Euro­ Ecovia’t certified. management of the tax revenues and the basic pean regulations. During environmental episodes, • Regulated municipal parking prices will be increa­ lines and actions on which they will be spent. a series of measures are defined whose goal is to sed 25%, except for Ecovia’t -certified vehicles.

52 53 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona 5. Appendix 1 Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020

Actions by the Government of Catalonia AE3 Optimization of the use of planes’ auxiliary power units (APU) Road transport and mobility AE4 Greener ground support vehicles and equipment at TP1 Modal transfer towards public road transport as a re­ Barcelona - El Prat Airport 5. Appendices sult of the improved supply and intermodality AE5 Ground Operations Improvement Plan TP2 Modal transfer towards public rail transport as a re­ Barcelona Port sult of the improved supply and intermodality PO1 Increase use of rail freight transport TP3 Modal transfer towards public transport as a result of PO2 Gasification of port activities the creation and promotion of P&R car parks TP4 Modal transfer towards public transport due to the Domestic sector availability of subsidized travel cards DS1 Replace boilers TP5 Modal transfer towards urban public transport in the DS2 Change windows, openings and improve sun protection second metropolitan ring DS3 Replace household appliances and lighting TP6 T-Mobility project DS4 Catalan building renovation strategy MO1 Promotion of bicycles for daily mobility Awareness raising, education, information and MO2 Promotion of electric vehicles (pure and plug-in communication hybrid) SF1 Efficient driving courses MO3 Promotion of higher occupancy of private vehicles SF2 Awareness raising, education and training actions to MO4 Plan mobility in the mobility generating centres and engage public co-responsibility for pollution areas of economic activity SF3 Public information actions about air quality MO5 Urban mobility plans (UMP) MO6 Electric motorcycle, in which Catalonia is a leader Taxation MO7 Promotion of the creation of service stations with FC1 Create the tax on gas and particulate matter emi­ cleaner fuels and battery charging points ssions at industrial and energy generation facilities. MO8 Promotion of flexible working hours and videoconfe­ FC2 Creation of a tax on polluting nitrogen oxide emi­ rence meetings ssions generated by commercial aviation MO9 Dynamic speed management to reduce traffic con­ FC3 Tax on atmospheric pollution generated by commer­ gestion cial and private vehicle traffic within the SPA AV1 Greener public service heavy vehicle fleets FC4 Endowment of the Fund for the Protection of the At­ AV2 Green vehicle procurement mospheric Environment AV3 Transport fleet emblem Actions in declarations of environmental atmos- AV4 Reduced toll prices for clean vehicles pheric pollution episodes AV5 Inspections for the most polluting vehicles EC1 Public information AV6 Subsidies to promote purchase of low-emission vehi­ EC2 Speed variation cles for taxi fleets EC3 Action protocol for industry and power generation AV7 Pricing of heavy goods vehicles for using certain road EC4 Differential pricing of mobility during environmental infrastructures episodes Industry, combustion and electricity cogenera- EC5 Monitor air quality, increasing use of pollutant dis­ tion < 50 MWt persion modelling tools IN1 Monitoring of industrial emissions Actions by local authorities for municipa- IN2 Foster energy-efficient technologies that reduce lities with more than 100,000 inhabitants pollutants in the city IN3 Promotion of application of efficient energy use cri­ Domestic sector teria by industry in process design and optimization EL33 Limitation on the installation of new heating oil, coal IN4 Foster environmental investments by industry and biomass boilers. Electricity generation ≥ 50 MWt Environmental pollution episodes EN1 Conclution of agreements with electricity generating EL34 Protocol for coordinating actions with the Govern­ companies ment of Catalonia during environmental pollution EN2 Implement a simulation model for atmospheric episodes pollutant dispersion Road transport and mobility Barcelona - El Prat de Llobregat Airport EL35 Identification of urban areas with protected atmos­ AE1 People and goods mobility improvement plan for Air­ phere (UAPA) port access EL36 Differential pricing of municipal parking based on ve­ AE2 Reduction of emissions from fixed points of atmos­ hicle polluting potential pheric pollution at the airport EL37 Reduce pollution in school zones

54 55 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona Appendix 2 Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Barcelona Declaration

Barcelona Declaration on air quality, noise reduction and improvements in health in large urban centres

On the occasion of the European Symposium According to the European Environment Agency viour of the population. Most sources of air pollu­ • Actions aimed at improving air quality also re­ on Air Quality, Noise and their Health Impacts in (EEA, 2014), between 91% and 93% of the Eu­ tion emissions are out of the control of individuals present an opportunity to boost the economy Large Urban Centres, which was held in Barcelo­ ropean population is exposed to fine particulate and require measures carried out by cities, regions, through sustainable development criteria. For na on 5 June 2015 (World Environment Day), the matter (PM2.5) that exceeds WHO recommen­ countries and the European Union, in addition to this reason, comprehensive approaches must participating­ institutions, organizations and in­ dations, and between 95% and 98% are exposed sector regulations on land-use planning, mobili­ be implemented to address structural cha­ dividuals from international bodies, sub-national to O3 levels above those recommended by WHO. ty, energy, housing, industry and construction, to llenges such as energy efficiency and the use of and local governments, research centres and other Fine particulate matter and ozone are responsible ensure that the signs of change move in the right clean energy in mobility, industry, services and groups involved in the improvement of air quality, for more than 400,000 premature deaths a year direction. So far, taxes on automotive fuels and on the domestic sector and the application of best noise pollution and health in Europe, while exposure to particulate matter vehicles are showing signs of having the opposite available technologies (BATs) in industry, and to reduces the life expectancy of the population by effect to that of reducing the diesel vehicle fleet. address the economic, environmental and so­ Hereby recognize that: about a year, mainly due to the increased risk of cial sustainability of a public transport system Therefore, that represents a more appealing and compe­ Numerous studies conducted over the last 20 cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and lung titive alternative to private vehicles. These also years have demonstrated a direct link between cancer. Children who live near roads with heavy We hereby declare that: represent an opportunity to promote active air pollution and people’s health and that pollu­ traffic have double the risk of developing brea­thing • Every person has the right to breathe good- tion also affects the quality of the environment. problems than those living near less congested transport (walking and cycling) and to restore quality­ air and enjoy this shared commodity, Furthermore, noise pollution is a type of atmos­ streets. Moreover, the European Commission esti­ natural conditions in urban spaces. which is crucial for a healthy life. pheric pollution that also has an adverse impact on mates that the total cost of the health impacts of • It is necessary that the diesel vehicles in real people’s health and is not merely an annoyance. air pollution in 2010 was between 330 and 940 • Every person has the right to live in an environ­ circulation conditions meet the emission ex­ trillion euros; direct economic damage includes ment free from noise pollution. Natural sound pectations established by the Euro regulations, Large urban centres such as Berlin, London, Milan, 15 trillion euros from workdays lost and 4 trillion environments must be preserved, since they because urban circulation of polluting diesel Paris and Barcelona, which were represented at the euros in healthcare costs. contribute to well-being and quality of life. vehicles is a critical factor for urban air quality. Symposium, are failing to comply with one or more Contact with nature and green zones must be Several independent studies conclude that the of the air quality limit values set by the European WHO also reports that about 40% of the European­ encouraged in all types of environment. nitrogen oxides emissions of the diesel vehicles Union (EU) and the guideline values recommen­ population is exposed to noise levels exceeding 55 in real circulation conditions exceed 7 times the ded by the World Health Organization (WHO) for dB. As a result of this, Europeans are expected to • Achieving good air quality and an environment with average values required for their homologation. air polluting substances such as suspended par­ lose 61,000 years of life annually due to death or low noise pollution is an inescapable challenge for For this reason, the Euro 6 regulation urgently ticulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter disability related to cardiovascular disease. At a the present and future that can only be addressed needs updating in order to assimilate emissions (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and tropospheric worldwide scale in 2010, air pollution caused by with a comprehensive, cross-cutting strategy that in real-life traffic conditions to design values. ozone (O3). These breaches affect a large part of particulate matter was responsible for 3.1 million requires the active participation of all actors and the European population. deaths and 3% of disability-adjusted life years lost. sectors concerned and is shared by all citizens. • New financial programs for air quality policies, such as environmental taxation and public-pri­ • The coordination of air quality, climate change Road traffic, especially diesel vehicles used for Consequently, WHO considers air pollution to be a vate partnerships, must be implemented to commuter travel, is one of the main sources of and energy policies leads to synergies that can major public health problem. help promote alternatives and improvements pollution behind this problem. Other emission help reduce energy consumption and emis­ to existing mobility, production and living pa­ sources which also contribute to the problem, de­ Reducing air and noise pollution is a complex cha­ sions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants tterns. pending on the specific urban reality, are industry, llenge because it is directly related to economic and improve the health of the population, as is ports and airports, road freight transport, services activity, land use, mobility, power generation, do­ being demonstrated in several places where this • Research on the health impacts of air quality and housing. mestic activities, and the daily routines and beha­ coordination is taking place. and noise is a necessary tool to improve the pro­

56 57 Working for cleaner air in the agglomeration of Barcelona Appendix 2 Air Quality Action Plan, horizon 2020 Barcelona Declaration

tection of public health. In particular, research We hereby call on all stakeholders, ci­ • Promote active mobility by encouraging safe involve opinion leaders and, even more impor­ on strategies to reduce air pollution, exposure tizens, social groups, businesses and and healthy walking in quiet, smoke-free envi­ tantly, health and media professionals in the to specific pollutants and the effects of all types governments, within their respective ronments, and work towards making all urban task of disseminating accurate information on of intervention should be conducted. Research spheres of action and to the best of centres bike-friendly, in order to substantially the subject. results must be incorporated into public policies their abilities, to promote and prioritize increase the modal share of cycling for commu­ • Increase institutional collaboration and esta­ ter travel. and recommendations to reduce the health measures to: blish mechanisms for sharing and analysing ac­ impacts of pollution and noise. However, Ho­ • Promote renewal of the vehicle fleet so that it tions and experiences to improve air quality in • Promote, develop and support plans to improve rizon 2020, the EU Framework Programme for includes new, cleaner and quieter automotive urban areas and anticipate pollution events, in air quality in order to bring air pollution levels Research and Innovation, does not point to this technologies such as electric vehicles, clean-fuel order to reduce the intensity and the impact on below the established legal levels and also reach goal nor does it include research on improving vehicles and low-emission hybrid vehicles. public health. air quality to a sufficient degree in its objectives. those air quality values recommended by WHO. • Take noise pollution into account in spatial and The organizers of the Symposium hereby un­ • Rethink cities and land use to promote sus­ • Information, dissemination, education and land-use planning policies, infrastructure cons­ dertake to refer this declaration to the European tainable mobility based on public transport, awareness raising are fundamental require­ truction, urban design and mobility policies. Union and the World Health Organization so that ments for advancing social co-responsibility for intermodality, a shift from private motorized they have knowledge of it. the improvement of environmental quality by transport to more sustainable options, and ac­ • Promote research that analyses interventions calling for global changes and modifying indi­ tive mobility (walking and cycling) in a safe and on noise and air pollution and their effects on vidual behaviour, and it is essential in order to healthy environment. health in order to gain a deeper understanding of their impact on health and the environment, World Environment Day participate, with full knowledge of the facts, in • Promote a public transport system that is and define new reduction strategies based on Barcelona, 5 June 2015 collective decision-making processes. more competitive than private transport, more scientific evidence. appealing to citizens and meets the require­ ments for frequency, accessibility, comfort and • Raise awareness among the population of the price, by using low-emission vehicles. challenges associated with air pollution and www.airemes.net

58 59 Large urban centers in Europe share a common problem: air pollu- tion. Barcelona and 39 municipalities around it are not an excep­ tion; the agglomerations of Berlin, London, Paris, Stockholm, Milan and Madrid have similar situations. The fact that it is a common problem doesn’t decrease its importance: according to the World Health Organization air pollution is the most important worldwide environmental risk for health.

For years this problem and its effects on health have been minimi- zed, but now there is enough evidence about the effects on health and governments can not remain inactive without acting and just be spectators. Moreover, the rules of the EU and WHO recommen- dations are strict on this matter.

The Government of Catalonia approved in September 2014, the Air Quality Action Plan in Barcelona and 39 surrounding municipali- ties. The government and other local organizations, agencies and businesses are implementing measures; however, to deal with the difficult issue of improving the urban air quality, two requirements are necessary: first, all parties involved must accept that the pro- blem is real and, secondly, we are all a part of the solution.

The strategy to improve air quality is not opposed to car business or industry; it’s just against pollution generated by them. Beyond this, combating pollution is an opportunity for economic growth based on technology development, energy efficiency and the re- duction of negative externalities, i.e. the three elements that cha- racterize the transition to a green, modern and competitive eco- nomy.

www.airemes.net