Amsterdam bans cruise ships to limit visitors and curb pollution

Amsterdam’s council has taken significant action to reduce mass tourism and combat pollution by banning cruise ships from the city center. The decision aligns with the city’s sustainable ambitions and comes as a response to the environmental impact caused by over 100 cruise ships docking in Amsterdam annually. The closure of the central cruise terminal near the main train station is part of this measure.

The city has been actively addressing the challenges posed by its popularity, which attracts around 20 million visitors each year. Efforts include the prohibition of cannabis smoking in the red-light district and discouraging young British men from holding bachelor parties in Amsterdam through an online campaign.

The move to ban cruise ships not only aims to limit visitor numbers but also to mitigate air pollution. A 2021 study revealed that one large cruise ship emitted nitrogen oxides equivalent to 30,000 trucks in a single day. Lowering air pollution levels in the city is a key goal behind this decision.

Amsterdam’s officials have recognized the need to enhance night-time culture for young people and are exploring the development of nightclub locations in disused tunnels and garages to support the creativity and talent of the city’s youth.

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