Choose from the following list to obtain more information about the various travel opportunities in Germany.

Low-pollution zones designed to protect the environment and public health were introduced in a few German cities on 1 January this year. This move will significantly reduce the levels of air pollutants emitted by car exhausts.

Only vehicles that meet certain emissions standards are allowed to enter designated low-pollution zones. Coloured discs that are valid in all such zones in German towns and cities have been introduced to distinguish low-emissions vehicles. Traffic signs indicate where the low-pollution zones begin and end, and a supplementary sign shows the 'environmental disc' that vehicles need to enter these zones. There are a total of four emissions categories, and vehicles in the worst category do not qualify for any disc.

Emissions category 1: no disc; vehicle not allowed to enter low-pollution zones
Emissions category 2: red disc
Emissions category 3: amber disc
Emissions category 4: green disc.

The discs must be affixed to the vehicle's windscreen so that they are clearly visible. Vehicles that enter a low-pollution zone without the appropriate disc can be fined €40.

The emissions classifications awarded to vehicles registered outside Germany will be based either on proof of their compliance with European emissions standards or on the date when they were first registered.

The discs can be purchased before travelling to Germany from Tüv Nord or Tüv Süd on the internet.