Low Emission Zones in focus: VTM deepens knowledge and practice

On 2 June, VTM, represented by Diana Botelho and Cristian Adorean, attended the Low-E Zone course, focused on Low Emission Zones (LEZs).

This initiative, organised by EIT Urban Mobility and carried out in collaboration with the Institute of Geography and Spatial Planning (IGOT), the Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) and the Centre for Innovation in Territory. Urbanism and Architecture (CitUA), had as its main objective to clarify and deepen the concept of Low Emission Zones, and to identify the main challenges to their implementation and management in cities, towards more sustainable and resilient cities, values and themes of importance in the projects developed at VTM.

The course stood out for its integrated combination of theoretical and practical components. On the theoretical side, participants had the opportunity to explore public policies related to Low Emission Zones (LEZ), applicable European and national regulations, emerging technologies that can be applied, and the importance of good communication and community involvement in their success.

The practical component was guided by a case study focused on Lisbon’s Low Emission Zones, allowing participants to directly apply the knowledge acquired, which was fundamental to identifying the real challenges of the current implementation of LEZs, while providing a favourable environment for the exchange of ideas and constructive debate within each working group. The central objective was to improve existing solutions and develop more effective approaches.

This practical exercise took place in a collaborative format, structured in pre-formed groups, and was developed in three interconnected phases that integrated methodologies such as PESTEL analysis and SWOT analysis. The combination of these tools allowed for an understanding of the external and internal context of LEZs. In the first phase, participants focused on getting to know the geographical area covered, analysing the specific context of LEZs in Lisbon. In the second phase, the groups moved on to drawing up concrete proposals aimed at increasing the effectiveness of LEZs and analysing the possible implementation of new zones. In the third phase, the main stakeholders involved were identified, assessing their importance and clarifying the specific role they play in each stage of the planning and implementation process of Low Emission Zones.

The programme brought together a diverse group of professionals, fostering a dynamic and enriching environment, ideal for sharing experiences and best practices.