Amsterdam will implement a zero-emission zone in its central canals starting April 1, 2025, permitting only pleasure craft powered by electricity, hydrogen, or manual propulsion, city authorities announced.
The regulation, aimed at reducing emissions in the city’s historic waterways, applies to non-commercial recreational boats but excludes sailing houseboats.
See also: Albert Heijn Expands Emission-Free Deliveries in Amsterdam, Plans Nationwide Rollout
Hybrid vessels will be allowed as long as they operate with zero emissions within the designated zone. The city noted that objections to the ruling could be submitted by “an interested party within six weeks of the announcement.”
The zero-emission zone covers the entire central canal area, including the Singelgracht, a high-traffic waterway used by approximately 14,000 pleasure boats.
Additionally, the city estimates that 600 passenger ships—500 of which are already electric—and 10,500 moored vessels will be affected. Enforcement will be managed through a vignette system, with transitional allowances for existing permit holders.
See also: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport Orders Over 50 Electric Buses from MAN
Amsterdam’s initiative follows its broader clean mobility plan, which includes a 2025 ban on combustion-engine taxis, vans, trucks, scooters, and mopeds in large sections of the city.
Source: Amsterdam.nl