Milan is a bustling city, known for its fashion, culture, and historical significance. However, in recent years, it has become notorious for its poor air quality and congested roads. To combat this, the city has implemented numerous measures, one of which is Area B, established in 2012. In this article, we explore how Area B works and its effectiveness in improving air quality in Milan. What is Area B? Area B is a low emission zone (LEZ) designed to reduce air pollution from traffic in designated areas of Milan. It is located within the boundaries of the city's Centro Storico and includes about 85 streets covering an area of approximately 5.8 km². The primary purpose of Area B is to limit access to older, polluting vehicles from entering the city center, while encouraging clean transportation methods. How does it work? The access restrictions in Area B are enforced from Monday to Friday, between 7:30 am and 7:30 pm. Vehicles in circulation must have a specific pass, which can be obtained online or at the municipal offices. The pass costs €5 per day and is valid for the entire day of issuance. Additionally, vehicles must meet specific environmental criteria, which are divided into three categories. The first category includes vehicles with Euro 0, Euro 1, and Euro 2 emissions standards, which are prohibited from entering Area B. The second category includes vehicles with Euro 3 emissions standards, which can enter Area B until 7:29 am and from 7:31 pm onwards. The final category includes vehicles with Euro 4, Euro 5, and Euro 6 emissions standards, which can enter Area B without any restriction. Exemptions are granted for emergency vehicles, public transportation, taxis, and vehicles used by disabled people. The implementation of Area B was initially limited to one year, but it has been extended until December 31, 2021. Effectiveness of Area B The effectiveness of Area B has been a topic of debate since its implementation in 2012. According to a study conducted by the Lombardy Regional Environmental Protection Agency, there was a 28% reduction in nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions in the first year of implementation. Furthermore, the study found that the daily average NO2 concentration in Area B decreased from 56.4 µg/m³ to 41.6 µg/m³, representing a 26% reduction. However, not everyone is convinced that Area B is successful in reducing air pollution. Some critics argue that the restrictions are too lenient, as Euro 3 vehicles can enter the area for a considerable period. Additionally, some suggest that because of the economic burden of obtaining a pass, many drivers are tempted to cheat by using counterfeit passes or avoiding the area altogether. Conclusion Area B is just one of many measures aimed at improving air quality in Milan. While its effectiveness remains a topic of debate, it is an essential step towards reducing the city's air pollution levels. As Milan continues to evolve and face the challenges of modernisation, it is important to keep exploring and implementing innovative solutions. Ultimately, reducing air pollution levels is crucial for promoting a healthier and more sustainable city for everyone.