.jpg%3Fwidth%3D450%26quality%3D100%26crop%3D4%253A3%26gravity%3Dcenter&w=1920&q=75)
.jpg%3Fwidth%3D1024%26quality%3D100%26crop%3D21%253A9%26gravity%3Dcenter&w=1920&q=75)
Environmental tax, how does it affect drivers?
Drivers need to be aware of how emissions can impact them – and this includes the various environmental taxes that are in the UK.
These taxes are key tools for the government to achieve sustainability goals and tackling climate change.
This guide looks at what environmental taxes are affecting drivers in the UK, and what other countries have them in Europe.
What is environmental tax?
Environmental taxes – also known as green or eco taxes – are levies imposed on citizens on products and services that could have an impact on the environment.
The primary goals are to raise money for local and national government – as well as encouraging people to adapt environmentally-friendly practices and reduce pollution.
Regarding the motoring industry, there are several environmental taxes that affect the industry.
Environmental tax in the UK
There is not an ‘Environmental Tax’ in name, but there are many versions that impact drivers in the UK.
From fuel to road tax to driving in some city centres, there are many that drivers need to be aware of.
- Euro 1 to Euro 6 – find out your vehicle’s emissions standard
- Clean Air Zones – what are they and where are they
- How will electric cars change our roads and impact the environment?
Examples of environmental tax
Environmental taxes impact drivers as there are levies issued due to the levels of emissions, to encourage the use of greener technology.
There are also ones for fuel, road tax, congestion charges, clean air zones, toll roads/bridges/tunnels, and many more.
Here are some of the environmental taxes that are impacting drivers in the UK:
- Vehicle Emission Tax (road tax)
- Fuel duty
- Low emission zones
- Clean Air Zones
- London Congestion Charge
- Scrappage schemes
- Toll roads & bridges
What European countries have environmental taxes for drivers?
According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, there are many European countries that currently have some form of environmental tax that can impact drivers.
Those countries include;
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Sweden
- Switzerland
What do you think of environmental taxes? Leave your comments below.
RAC sale – up to 33% off*
- Roadside cover from £5.29 a month†
- We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
- Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns on the spot
*T&Cs apply. †At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). Not on sale.
You might also like
Clean Air Zones – what are they and where are they?
A complete guide to Clean Air and Low Emissions Zones (LEZ) in the United Kingdom. Find out everything you need to know about CAZs in the UK with the RAC.
The London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ): what you need to know
Everything you need to know about the London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). From charge costs to compliant cars, read the RAC's complete guide here.
Low Emission Zones: what you need to know
As air quality becomes more important, measures are being put in place to discourage polluting vehicles from entering areas where air quality is poor.
Glasgow Low Emission Zone (LEZ): Everything you need to know
Everything you need to know about the Glasgow Low Emission Zone (CAZ). From how much to pay to penalty charge fees, our guide has it all on RAC Drive.
The Bath Clean Air Zone: What you need to know
Everything you need to know about the Bath Clean Air Zone, from the latest maps to details about fees and penalties.
Sheffield Clean Air Zone (CAZ) - everything you need to know
Find everything you need to know about the Sheffield Clean Air Zone with RAC Drive. From how much to pay to penalty charge fees, our guide has it all.
The Birmingham Clean Air Zone: what you need to know
Everything you need to know about the Birmingham Clean Air Zone (CAZ), from daily charges to checking your vehicle is compliant.
The Bristol Clean Air Zone: What you need to know
The Bristol Clean Air Zone is designed to tackle the city's air pollution. We explain how it will affect you and your car when in and around Bristol.
Newcastle and Gateshead Clean Air Zone: what you need to know
The Newcastle and Gateshead Clean Air Zone (CAZ) launched on January 30th 2023 and was introduced to improve the air quality in the city.
The Dartford Crossing Toll: how to pay the Dart Charge
Everything you need to know about the Dartford Crossing Toll. Find out how much you need to pay and what penalties you’ll face if you don’t pay the toll.
Popular in Advice & Guides
1
Do you have trouble driving at night because some headlights seem too bright? Perhaps you are driving less, or have even stopped driving altogether. If so, you're not alone
2
Lost driving licence – how to get a replacement
3
Car dashboard symbols and meanings – warning lights guide
4
What to do if your car breaks down
5
A complete guide to motorbike tax
6
How to check MOT history
7
MOT checklist and comprehensive guide
8
Cheapest cars to insure for new drivers 2025 - Top 10
9
Euro 7 emissions standard: what is it and when does it come into effect?
10