The Green Londoner turned into The Green Parisian for a weekend, exploring some of the city’s green policies, initiatives, and activities. Here are some highlights:
🌍 Policies
– Reduced speed limits: Since October, the périphérique (Paris’s version of the M25) has reduced its speed limit from 70km/h to 50km/h. Despite debates and legal challenges, the policy is now firmly in place with the support of the State and the city’s mayor. While pollution levels haven’t been significantly impacted in the first few months, noise levels, traffic jams, and accidents have decreased.
– Limited traffic zone: Introduced last November, this policy restricts motorised transit (with some exceptions) through the hypercenter, requiring vehicles to detour around the area.
– Low-emission zone: As of January 1, the Greater Paris low-emission zone tightened restrictions. Vehicles not meeting Crit’Air 3 standards (e.g., petrol cars registered before 2006 and diesel cars before 2011) are now prohibited from the metropolitan area. Temporary passes for 2025 and a year-long grace period are available for some drivers.
– Citizen Votes: On March 23, Parisians will take part in their third citizen vote, focused on greening the city’s streets and gardens. The initiative follows discussions in a citizens’ assembly, and even 16–18-year-olds can vote (with prior registration).
🎨 Exhibitions
– Carbon Footprint at Musée des Arts et Métiers:
A simple yet effective exhibit breaking down planetary boundaries, carbon footprints, and practical solutions. Fun fact: the carbon footprint of a pizza varies greatly depending on its toppings—margherita has the lowest impact! The exhibit also features objects like solar ovens, blending science and creativity. Open until May 11th.
– Sustainable Digital Weekend (Feb 7–9):
Coming soon to the same museum, this event will offer workshops, debates, and discussions on how to use technology sustainably. Perfect for anyone interested in being connected and greener!
📍 Places to check out
– Académie du Climat: A hub for climate knowledge, training, and workshops, with a packed calendar of events like climate fresks and community activities. The Academy also draws inspiration from abroad, with George Monbiot—whom we know well on this side of the Channel—set to give a speech on January 31st about alternatives to liberalism.
– The Buvette: Located in the historic 4th arrondissement city hall building, this café run by Yes We Camp and only working with local and independent suppliers serves plant-based dishes at affordable prices. Their banana bread made with buckwheat flour is a must-try!
– For a small sweet break, we highly recommend the tarte au citron basilic or the flan pecan from JOJO & Co, a small pastry boutique that works with seasonal products, high-quality ingredients, and, of course, everything is homemade!
Paris continues to innovate in sustainability and civic engagement, and having been a Parisian myself, it’s great to see how the city is transforming and leading the way. It’s becoming calmer, with fewer cars, less noise and air pollution, and more joggers, pedestrians, and cyclists—all in the spirit of the Olympic legacy.
The model of citizens’ assemblies and votes is a fascinating approach where Paris is truly ahead, shaping public policies while fostering democratic adoption. It’s a powerful example for other major cities to consider.
And the best part? You can join the city by train with Eurostar, traveling center to center while drastically reducing your emissions!
