Oslo banns diesel cars to tackle air pollution

For the first time ever, the City of Oslo has implemented a ban on diesel cars to counter the dangerous levels of air pollution. Today, the ban will be effective from 6 AM to 10 Pm.

“Acutely high air pollution means can make it hazardous for children, the elderly and asthmatics to be outdoors. The diesel ban is a radical measure, but it is necessary to preserve the health of city residents,” said Gerd Robsahm Kjørven, the acting director of the Environment Department in Oslo.

The non-favourable atmospheric conditions of these two days – cold weather and little wind – has convinced the town hall to implement the ban.  

After several local, regional and national governments convinced consumers to switch over to diesel, many have reversed in their approach when it was revealed that while diesel cars emit less CO2, they emit more nitrogen dioxyde.