Brussels government takes steps to cut carbon emissions

Two government bodies in Brussels – the Brussels-Capital Region and the Flemish Community Commission (VGC) – have issued a joint statement saying they will switch to environmentally friendly electric and hybrid vehicles.

Brussels-Capital Region said that it will cut its vehicle fleet by 26%, from 115 vehicles to 85. It also said that 55 of the 85 vehicles will be powered by electric or hybrid engines to reduce pollution and carbon emissions. 

Meanwhile, the VGC, which represents Flanders’ interests in Brussels, has said it will cut its vehicle fleet from 40 to 31 and implement efficiency measures so that vehicles are driven fewer kilometres.

The two bodies said they will select electric vehicles based on a calculation that takes into account greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and noise pollution. “The Brussels government has to set an example,” said mobility minister Bruno de Lille. “We need to cut carbon emissions to keep the city liveable. We are sending out a clear message by making our vehicle fleets smaller and greener.”