In the Île-de-France, and more particularly in areas close to the main, road-traffic routes, the atmospheric pollution regulatory norms are often exceeded, especially by nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particles with a a diameter of less than 10 and 2.5 micrometres (PM10 and PM2.5). The sources of this pollution are primarily road traffic and collective and individual heating systems.
In order to reduce pollution in French cities, the 12th July 2010 law, called the “Grenelle 2” authorises the creation of Priority Zones for Action to Protect Air (ZAPA), under which the circulation of the most polluting vehicles can be limited or even prohibited. In this way the law enables certain cities to apply for the setting up of an experimental ZAPA. The application of Paris was selected by the ADEME, the organisation responsible for the call for projects for a feasibility study, which defines the optimal perimeter, the vehicles concerned, the socio-economic consequences and associated means of monitoring. This study also aims to show the positive impact on the air quality brought about by the chosen measures.
