Environmental organization voices disapproval towards the transport sector climate change report
In a recent development, Swantje Michaelsen, transport policy spokeswoman for the Green Party faction, and Jens Hilgenberg, a transport expert from BUND, have criticised an expert report proposed by the expert forum on climate-friendly mobility and infrastructure (EKMI).
Michaelsen called for a realignment of investments, suggesting that instead of focusing on tax gifts and new motorways, the transport minister should ensure reliable financing of rail transport, a clear framework for e-mobility, and the promotion of public transport, cycling, and walking. However, she criticised the report for being vague in strengthening rail transport and securing the financing of the Germany ticket.
Hilgenberg's criticisms indicate that the report lacks a focus on regulatory approaches to achieve climate protection goals in the transport sector. He specifically highlighted the absence of discussions on a general speed limit and the lack of sufficient and promptly implementable measures in the area of cars and trucks to meet the climate protection goals in transport.
Both Michaelsen and Hilgenberg believe that the current report does not provide a comprehensive approach to putting the transport sector on a climate-friendly course. Hilgenberg emphasised the importance of the federal government advocating for ambitious EU regulations to achieve a swift and reliable switch to electric drive in the transport sector. He believes this could help reduce the national climate protection gap in transport to avoid penalty payments to the EU.
The expert recommendations for achieving climate goals in the Ministry of Transport were proposed by EKMI, established by Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder in June to support the ministry in developing measures for the transport sector. However, Schnieder's ministry has been criticised for lacking a clear plan despite this expert advice. No specific financial amounts proposed to implement these recommendations are mentioned in the available information.
Hilgenberg's assessments were given to the 'Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland'. His criticisms align with Michaelsen's, who previously criticised the report for not addressing environmentally harmful subsidies such as the company car privilege, the tax advantage for diesel, and the commuter allowance.
In conclusion, the expert report has received significant criticism for its lack of focus on climate-friendly measures and regulatory approaches. The federal government is urged to advocate for ambitious EU regulations to address climate protection in the transport sector and ensure a swift and reliable switch to electric drive.
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