Clean air is not yet a given

The climate is changing, and we will all feel the consequences of this worldwide. Plenty of plans to prepare for this or even reverse the process. But what can you contribute to this as an alderman of a medium-sized city in the Netherlands? What is the impact of a climate measure at the local level? Rik Thijs, alderman for Climate, Energy, Land and Greening in Eindhoven, shares his dilemmas, choices and ambitions with us once a month.

Clean air. It seems so obvious that the air you breathe all day long is clean. Unfortunately, the reality is different. Because you can't see it and there are no immediate consequences, you don't think about it as often. If you ask people with respiratory diseases such as asthma what daily inconvenience they experience, they can undoubtedly give you examples.

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What can we do about it as a city, because the air does not stop at the city limits? First of all, as a municipality, we have co-signed the Clean Air Agreement. This agreement aims to permanently improve the air quality in the Netherlands. Participating parties take measures to limit air pollution from domestic sources. By tackling domestic sources, we strive for a health gain of at least 50 percent in 2030 compared to 2016. This a challenge because, as a municipality, we cannot turn all the dirty air knobs. Consider that we are located between the Ruhr area and the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp and that there are sources outside our city, such as intensive livestock farming. And they do have an impact on our air quality.

Polarization

But that does not mean that we, as a municipality, cannot do anything and have no responsibility. As the city of Eindhoven, we accept that responsibility. We have our own implementation plans to improve air quality. For example, we offer subsidies to residents and entrepreneurs who scrap their old, polluting scooters, mopeds, motorized bicycles, cars, or vans.

As an alderman, I think it is vital that we also pay attention to people who cannot easily participate in this change. Issues surrounding the environment, the climate, and clean air should not cause further polarization in our city. Polarization between people who can afford it and those who cannot but would like to. For this reason, there is a trade-in option for residents with a low income, whereby they receive a new electric scooter after scrapping their old moped or scooter.

Wood burning

Homeowners in Eindhoven who have the flue in their home removed can receive a subsidy of up to 1000 euros. We also advise residents to burn wood more intelligently by using the Stookwijzer (Fuel Guide). A heating ban will be introduced in the fall based on the Stookwijzer. This handy tool helps determine when there is a ban on burning wood, for example, in windless weather. Many people with lung problems rarely go outside in windless weather, while it should be possible and pleasant for everyone to stretch their legs with a walk through the neighborhood.

The measures may feel like small beer, but if all municipalities take small steps and keep turning the knobs, everyone will benefit because everyone breathes - and prefers to do so with clean air.