Analysing the distributional effects of low emission zones. A case study of the city of Barcelona.

Abstract

This thesis is framed in the context of the urgent need for integrating social justice into sustainability policies, emphasising the concept of a "just transition" towards environmental harmony without compromising social fairness. An academic consensus on the interconnectedness of environmental policies and social justice is highlighted, despite existing gaps between aspirations and realities. Urban areas, due to their significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions and vulnerability to climate change, are identified as crucial for implementing effective and equitable climate policies. Given the scarcity of empirical studies on integrating social justice principles into sustainability policies, especially regarding Low Emission Zones (LEZs) in urban settings, this work addresses the knowledge gap concerning the potential distributional effects of LEZ in the case of Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain). Although LEZ has benefits, it raises concerns about its potential negative impacts on low-income communities, such as unfair access and mobility restrictions and financial burdens, underscoring the need for a comprehensive examination of LEZ policies to ensure they advance both environmental goals and social justice Employing an embedded single-case study analysis design, the methodology combines quantitative and qualitative research techniques, structured in three distinct phases. First, a statistical correlation analysis was conducted to examine the numerical relationships and trends between household income, the proportion of non-compliant cars, the quality of public transport, and the percentage reduction of non-compliant cars. Second, a qualitative survey was conducted to acquire qualitative data and insights from the population of the poorest and richest neighbourhoods in Barcelona. Finally, interviews with four experts were conducted to discuss and validate the results and information obtained. The findings from both the statistical correlation analysis and qualitative surveys reveal that the LEZ policy in Barcelona does have some distributional effects that are disproportionally felt by lower-income households. The statistical correlation analysis shows how lower-income populations might feel the effects of the LEZ policy implementation more strongly, and the results show a higher proportion of non-compliant vehicles when the policy was established and a higher economic burden in replacing those vehicles. Moreover, the qualitative surveys reveal that lower-income groups face challenges in adapting to the policy, especially when they live in areas with poor public transport quality. Residents of the higher-income area exhibit greater awareness and adaptability to the LEZ requirements, while residents from the lower-income levels exhibit significant difficulties to adapt. The findings, together with the collective insights from interviews with experts, advocate for a more equitable approach to LEZ implementation, stressing the importance of enhancing accessibility and reducing economic strain for the most affected. In conclusion, the findings of this thesis underscore the need for policies that are both environmentally effective and but also socially just, incorporating the perspectives of vulnerable populations in the policymaking process. The findings advocate for a more equitable approach to LEZ implementation, stressing the importance of enhancing accessibility and reducing economic strain for the most affected.