​We participated in "EELISA-on-the-MOVE 2nd CO-CREATION SEMINAR: LOW EMISSION ZONES: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES" event

On February 22-24, 2023, Istanbul hosted an international seminar focusing on Low Emission Zones (LEZ). This seminar can be considered as an important milestone in the sustainable development journey of our cities. Organized within the framework of the Sustainable Development Transport Projects (SDTP), this event encouraged in-depth discussions on low carbon emission and emission reduction.

This seminar brought together experts and decision makers from cities across Europe, including Istanbul, Madrid and Budapest. The main agenda of the seminar was to discuss strategies to improve air quality and promote environmental sustainability in cities. Participants shared the successes and challenges of LEZ projects implemented in their cities. This led to valuable exchanges on how they can be integrated into the unique structure of Istanbul.

Low Emission Zones (LEZ) are city zones created to improve air quality and reduce environmental pollution. In these zones, vehicles must meet certain emission standards. Generally implemented in city centers, LEZs restrict the traffic of older and high-emission vehicles. This practice is designed to reduce air pollution and protect the health of city residents. Managed by local governments, LEZs contribute to making cities cleaner and more sustainable by promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.

The students were divided into groups and evaluated the current situation of the peninsula. As a result of the SWOT analysis, the students proposed various solutions for the transformation of the historical peninsula as a low emission zone.

The Low Emission Zones seminar in Istanbul was not limited to sharing theoretical knowledge and experience. In the next phase of the event, the students conducted a field study in the historical peninsula of Istanbul and conducted a comprehensive SWOT analysis of mobility, environmental, social and technological factors. This analysis was aimed at identifying what needs to be done to make the region a low emission zone.

This event gave students the opportunity to work on real-world problems and generate concrete solutions. At the same time, it showed the importance of sustainable and innovative approaches for the future of Istanbul's historic peninsula. These analyses and recommendations provided knowledge and ideas that will contribute significantly to the transformation of the city as a low emission zone.