Many councils in England are implementing new parking charges based on CO2 emissions, meaning certain cars will have to pay more for parking permits. Lambeth Council is one of the latest councils to introduce these emission-based charges, which are determined by the tax band of the vehicle and its CO2 emissions. The aim of these charges is to reduce motor vehicle usage in Lambeth and promote sustainable alternatives like public transport, cycling, and walking, while encouraging the use of less polluting vehicles. The introduction of these measures aligns with the UK’s legally binding targets of reaching net-zero by 2050 and reducing carbon emissions by 2030 through the phase-out of petrol and diesel cars. The new charges for residential permits range from £120.21 for electric vehicles to £500 a year for cars emitting 255g/km+ of CO2. Street parking charges will also follow a similar band system. Although Lambeth introduced the changes despite opposition, with 59 percent of respondents objecting in the consultation, other councils such as Lewisham, The City of London Corporation, Bath and North East Somerset Council, and St Albans are also considering similar schemes. However, critics like Reform UK London Mayoral candidate Howard Cox argue that these parking charges are unnecessary, punitive, and merely a cash grab from local councils. Cox believes that the growing wave of anti-driver policies across the country, including the ban on new petrol and diesel cars and the expansion of the Ultra Low Emissions Zone, will have disproportionate costs compared to the environmental benefits. Concerns are also raised about the concept of “equity” in designing these policies as it may lead to socialist wealth redistribution. Nonetheless, Lambeth Council defends its decision, stating that the emissions-based pricing structure aligns with their goal of becoming a Net Zero Borough by 2030 and will make parking fees fairer by charging more to those who pollute the most.