This new paper develops a governance framework for Low- and Zero-Emission Zones (LEZs and ZEZs) tailored to cities in the Global South, using Rio de Janeiro as a case study. While such zones are widely implemented in European cities, their transfer to rapidly growing cities in developing contexts is far more complex due to institutional, socio-economic and infrastructural constraints. The study therefore proposes an ASIF-based governance framework to guide the design and implementation of emission zones.
Transport is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution in large cities, making LEZs and ZEZs attractive policy instruments. However, the authors argue that cities in the Global South face additional challenges, including strong social inequality, informal transport sectors, limited enforcement capacity and fragmented institutional responsibilities. As a result, emission zones cannot be implemented as stand-alone measures and must be embedded in broader urban and transport policies.
The proposed framework is based on the ASIF approach: Avoid, Shift, Improve and Fuel. The “Avoid” pillar focuses on reducing travel demand and vehicle kilometres through urban planning and behavioural change. “Shift” promotes moving towards public transport and active mobility. “Improve” targets vehicle efficiency and logistics performance, while “Fuel” addresses the transition to low- and zero-emission energy sources. Using ASIF allows policymakers to integrate emission zones into wider climate and mobility strategies rather than treating them as isolated interventions.
The case study of Rio de Janeiro highlights governance and institutional barriers. Responsibilities for transport and environmental policy are spread across municipal, state and federal levels, making coordination difficult. Socio-economic inequality further complicates implementation, as many residents rely on older vehicles and informal transport. Strict access restrictions could therefore create social resistance if introduced too quickly. Infrastructure readiness is another limitation, particularly the lack of public transport capacity and charging infrastructure.
To address these challenges, the paper proposes a phased implementation roadmap over approximately ten years. The first phase focuses on building governance capacity, coordination structures and emissions monitoring systems. This is followed by pilot zones and gradual tightening of regulations. Later stages involve scaling up electrification and charging infrastructure and expanding towards full zero-emission zones.
Stakeholder engagement and public acceptance are emphasised as essential throughout the process. The authors stress that emission zones must be accompanied by complementary policies such as improvements in public transport, incentives for cleaner vehicles and social measures to prevent inequality.
The study concludes that LEZs and ZEZs are feasible in Global South cities, but only when supported by strong governance, long-term planning and cross-sector collaboration. The ASIF framework provides a structured approach to balance environmental objectives with social and institutional realities.