The eco badge is a sticker placed on the windscreen of a car and authorises drivers to enter major European cities. The aim of the badge is to improve the quality of life and air in so-called eco zones – usually in city centres – by allowing only vehicles that pollute the environment in minimal quantities to enter the city. Eco zones have been introduced in Germany , Austria and France , and are growing in number across Europe. Failure to have the badge can result in a fine of €2,180 for both trucks and cars, depending on the country concerned.
Ecological zones in Germany
The environmental badge (German: Umweltplakette) is a mandatory requirement when entering the city centers of many German cities, including Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Cologne and Hanover, and the list continues to grow. The badge provides information on the level of pollution caused by a particular car or truck, using 4 color-coded emission categories. Failure to comply can result in a fine of 80 euros.
Ecological zones in France
Crit’Air is a sticker that allows drivers to enter the center of Paris and other major French cities. Its purpose is to regulate the entry of vehicles with high emissions and noise levels. The obligation has been in effect since February 1, 2017 and applies to foreign cars and trucks. There are 6 types of stickers, which, according to their color, indicate how much the vehicle pollutes the environment. Some cities relax the obligation to label cars between 8:00 and 20:00. The current fine is 68 euros.
Ecological zones in Austria
In Austria, the “Pickerl” environmental badge has been introduced in the regions of Vienna, Upper Austria and Styria. New zones are gradually being created, but the situation is complicated by the lack of appropriate road signs, so it is recommended to check your planned route on the low-emission map. The badge is currently only mandatory for vehicles of category N, including N1. In Austria, there are 6 types of stickers, which differ in color, reflecting the amount of emissions of the vehicle. Failure to comply with these requirements carries a high fine of up to 2,180 euros.