Most modern cities have taken action to reduce traffic jams and improve air quality. But if they want to become more livable, they should think about more helpful plans.
Amsterdam has set a good example. As from 2030, driving a gas car in the city will not be allowed. The Dutch capital wants its people to become healthier and happier. One way to do so is to use electric(电动的) cars or give up driving completely. Some other cities, including Chengdu, Hamburg and Madrid, have followed this example. They have also been thinking about car bans(禁令).
▲ . Traffic jams waste lots of fuel and time each year. They slow down economic growth. Pollution from cars makes climate change more serious. It is also bad for people's health. Amsterdam's government says car pollution reduces the life of its people by a full year.
But will everyone like such plans? Electric cars, after all, are more expensive. And for most people, giving up driving means life will become more difficult. Perhaps cities can help make this change easier. For example, they can think about improving public transportation. People who drive electric cars may spend less on parking fees. New technologies can also do their part. Cities can be more open to new ways of getting around, such as bike-sharing.
Saying no to non-electric cars or even all cars is hard. But let's think seriously about our health and future and those of our planet. Making our cities more livable has to become an urgent(迫切的) goal.
