Mopeds and scooters emit far more pollution than lorries and twice as much as the average car, according to research from the cyclists’ lobby group Fietsersbond.

Measurements taken in 12 Dutch cities show cyclists inhale more pollutants passing mopeds or lorries, and that the concentration of emissions from mopeds increases up to 14 times when waiting at traffic lights.
The lobby group has asked environment minister Jacqueline Cramer to set emission levels for mopeds, which are increasingly popular among teenagers.
Despite the over-exposure to pollution suffered by cyclists, the lobby group points out that cycling is still healthier than driving a car. ‘It is not only exercise for the lungs, but for the heart, muscles and entire body,’ a spokeswoman told news agency ANP.
In Amsterdam, environmental activists want the city council to ban both polluting mopeds and boats, the Parool reports. The city council has drawn up controversial plans to improve the inner city air quality by banning old cars and lorries without special filters from entering.