Owning a car in major cities should be taxed heavily to fight climate change.

Owning a car in major cities has long been a symbol of personal freedom and convenience, but it also contributes to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and traffic congestion. The idea of imposing heavy taxes on urban car ownership builds on policies already used in some regions to reduce reliance on private vehicles and promote sustainable alternatives. Historically, cities like London and Singapore pioneered congestion pricing—charging vehicles to enter central zones during peak hours. These systems emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as a response to worsening smog and gridlock. Similar approaches include high registration fees, emissions-based taxes, and limited parking permits designed to make car ownership less economically attractive. Proposals for heavier taxation often target high-emission vehicles or second cars, with revenue directed toward public transit improvements, cycling infrastructure, or green spaces. This strategy connects to broader efforts to meet climate goals set by international agreements like the Paris Accord, which emphasize reducing carbon output from transport—a sector responsible for about a quarter of global CO2 emissions. In parallel, many cities are experimenting with low-emission zones, bans on diesel engines, and incentives for electric vehicles. These measures reflect a growing recognition that urban transportation policy plays a critical role in addressing both environmental sustainability and public health.