Particulate matter and environmental badges in the Marina Alta and Marina Baja

Benidorm introduces stricter environmental zones, Other cities will follow step by step.

Since 2023, the cities of the Costa Blanca have also been obliged to set up environmental zones (Zonas de Bajas Emisiones, ZBE) in order to improve air quality. In the Marina Alta and Marina Baja, implementation is now becoming increasingly serious. While some cities have already taken concrete steps, others are still in the planning phase. The goal: emission-free mobility by 2050.

Benidorm: Pioneer in the region
Benidorm is one of the first cities in the region to implement the legal requirements. The city has already set up a comprehensive environmental zone that covers 74 hectares and is divided into three areas - the Levante and Poniente beach zones and the old town. Cameras have already been installed here to monitor access roads. After a transitional phase of around six months, fines of up to 200 euros will be imposed for offences from 1 January 2025. This transitional period is intended to give residents and visitors the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the new regulations.

Important details for residents and tourists:

For residents without an environmental badge, there are special permits that can be applied for at the town hall.
Tourists staying in the low emission zone are to receive temporary access permits via an app. Delivery services can also apply for a special permit via the same app.

Other cities in the marinas
In the region, Dénia (Marina Alta) and Villajoyosa (Marina Baja) are also obliged to set up environmental zones as they exceed the threshold of 50,000 inhabitants. While Benidorm is already a pioneer, Dénia and Villajoyosa are still in the early stages of implementation. There are no precise details as to when the zones will be fully established and monitored.

The role of the DGT environmental badges
Entry to the ZBE requires the corresponding sticker from the Spanish transport authority DGT:

0 Emisiones (blue)Electric vehicles and certain plug-in hybrids.
ECO (green-blue)Hybrids and gas-powered vehicles.
C (green)Low-emission petrol (Euro 4 and higher) and diesel (Euro 6).
B (yellow)Older petrol engines (Euro 3) and diesel engines (Euro 4 and 5).
Vehicles without a sticker - categorised as „A“ - have the greatest restrictions and will no longer be allowed to enter the zones from 2025.

Where can I get the environmental badge?
Vehicles require a valid DGT environmental sticker in order to be allowed to enter the low emission zones (ZBE) in Spain. This sticker is available at the Spanish post office (Correos) as well as in authorised garages and tobacconists (tobacco shops). It is also possible to apply online via the official website of the Spanish transport authority (DGT). The cost of the environmental sticker is usually around 5 euros.
NoteFor foreign vehicles, the sticker can also be applied for in order to avoid penalties when entering the ZBE. It is recommended to do this in good time before travelling.

Outlook for the future
The introduction of low emission zones is just the beginning of a comprehensive strategy to reduce pollution. The aim is to stop authorising new combustion engines by 2035 and to make cities completely emission-free by 2050. It is advisable for residents and visitors to Marina Alta and Marina Baja to find out about the new regulations in good time in order to avoid restrictions and protect the environment.

You can obtain the badge from DGT here:
https://www.pegatinas-dgt.com