Assessment of the impact of speed limit reduction and traffic signal coordination on vehicle emissions using an integrated approach

This paper examines the effects of two traffic management measures, speed limit reduction and coordinated traffic lights, in an area of Antwerp, Belgium. An integrated model is deployed that combines the microscopic traffic simulation model Paramics with the CO2 and NOX emission model VERSIT+. On the one hand, reductions in CO2 and NOX emissions of about 25% were found if speed limits are lowered from 50 to 30 km/h in the residential part of the case study area. On the other hand, reductions in the order of 10% can be expected from the implementation of a green wave signal coordination scheme along an urban arterial road.

► This paper examines the effects of reduced speed limits and coordinated traffic lights on CO2 and NOX emissions.
► We combine the microscopic traffic simulation model Paramics with the emission model VERSIT+.
► The case study area “Zurenborg” in Antwerp, Belgium, is considered.
► Lowering speed limits from 50 to 30 km/h reduces emissions by about 25% in residential area.
► Implementing a green wave along an arterial road reduces emissions by about 10%.