The management of the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) in Brussels could be fairer, according to Ombuds Brussels, the mediation service of the Brussels Region.
After analysing the functioning of the LEZ, Ombuds Brussels published a report on Wednesday concluding that better provisions should be made for people from lower socio-economic groups.
The organisation floated several ideas, including introducing a one-day pass via non-digital channels, issuing initial warnings accompanied by explanations, and not issuing immediate fines to all offenders. Another recommendation is the elimination of the automatic increase in the fine upon the first reminder.
The investigation conducted by Ombuds Brussels originates from the hundred complaints received during the first year of operation of this investigation service and from citizens contesting a fine for having driven in the Low Emission Zone with an unauthorised vehicle.
In the conclusions of its report, Ombuds Brussels makes 14 recommendations aimed essentially at “putting the perspective of LEZ users back at the center of the discussion, in particular those with a vulnerable socio-economic profile.”
For example, purchasing a one-day pass, which anyone can use up to 24 times a year, is only available online or at a one-stop shop located at the Brussels Taxation headquarters.
Ombuds Brussels explains that “not only is this practice contrary to Brussels Digital, which stipulates that several channels must be available for any administrative procedure, but it also reinforces the inequality between citizens who are comfortable with IT tools and those who are in a digital divide.”
The institution also recommends allowing a pass to be refunded or exchanged, which is not currently the case.
