It’s been a while since ZFEs were created, originally called ZCRs (Restricted Circulation Zones). But no matter what it is and no matter what it is called, the goal is the same: to ban the traffic of cars that are considered the most polluting. For this, the Crit’Air sticker system is used to recognize vehicles that are allowed to enter the zone or not. The system is obviously highly criticized by both motorists and elected officials who decry the discrimination. So much so that some are trying to ban the event everywhere in France.

WARNING! Since 2015 and the appearance of Crit’Air vignettes, traffic restrictions apply to certain vehicles in large cities. Shall we summarize together? 🚙 #MyMoreResponsibleProject

– Postal Bank (@LaBanquePostale) August 30, 2022

Not enough

Yes, for example, in Marseille, but not only. The goal then is to eliminate those areas that are considered discriminatory. But, on the contrary, some would still not have enough. This is particularly the case for two associations, namely the Toulon-Var Déplacements (TVP) and the Association for the Protection of the Environment of Saint-Mandieu (APE). The latter are really suitable for that ask for the stricter ZFE in Toulon. This is now restricted to pedestrian areas only, which means that motorists are not fined. And above all, that is completely legal. But this is not enough for two organizations.

Before expansion

The latter are indeed in favor of expanding the ZFE, as explained by a TVP spokesperson quoted by Var-Matin. According to him, ” here everything is done for the car. We widen highways, build parking lots… We pursue policies that are completely at odds with the fight against pollution“. For his part, Dominique Calmet (APE) explains that “we are in the sum contradiction with the regulations (…) Limiting these zones to pedestrian space is a mockery of the world“.