There are two sides to every story. To help you make an informed decision this page outlines the arguments for and against introducing the scheme.
Believe it or not, Islington produces more carbon dioxide (C02) than some small countries. So while the easy option is to sit back and say it’s not our problem, the reality is that we need to act.
One of the steps to slow down the damage being done to our planet is to limit the amount of C02 released into the atmosphere. Cars dirty our air, they emit C02 along with other pollutants, so reducing emissions from cars will be a step in the right direction.
Most people are aware of climate change but don't actively do anything about it. This scheme gives Islington residents an easy way to help the environment. By adding a “green” element to parking, the scheme helps increase awareness about climate change. It also encourages people to think about how much cars pollute when they come to change their vehicle.
People who currently own cars emitting high levels of CO2 may decide to change their vehicle for one that is more eco-friendly. If this happens, the emission levels of C02 and other dangerous pollutants in Islington should fall.
And the key benefit from the scheme is that people who make environmentally friendly choices are rewarded by paying less to park their cars.
Websites for more information
The Carbon Trust (see the link under Useful Website on the right)
Like it or not, cars are a part of modern, everyday life. People use them to get to work, to do business, get the shopping and take the kids to school. And while vehicles do release C02, these emissions are lower than those emitted from other sources, such as our homes or industry.
So why is the motorist being singled out? To make a real difference the council could focus on finding solutions that will have a greater impact. The motorist shouldn’t be solely responsible for improving the environment especially when they are already charged more through vehicle excise duty, petrol tax and congestion.
People choose cars that they like and enjoy driving. So realistically, because the cost of a residents’ parking permit is only a small cost associated with owning a car, it may not influence a motorist’s choice of vehicle purchase now or in the future.
Families may also use larger cars. Why should a large family have to pay more to park their car when it is necessary for them to have a car with more space?
The current parking scheme is easy to understand but the proposed new scheme is more complicated and could lead to mistakes in what people have to pay.
Websites for more information
The Association of British Drivers (see the link under Useful Website on the right)
Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008