UK Government reported to support 'weakening' of 2012 EU CO2 targets
Fri 10 October 2008
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The UK Government is reported to be supporting Franco-German amendments to weaken European Commission proposals to cut CO2 emissions from new cars. The Guardian newspaper claims it has seen a briefing document from the Department for Transport to MEPs which urges them to support three amendments to the European Commission's proposals to limit emissions from new cars to 120g CO2 per km. The briefing states that the UK supports the phase-in of the new limit over three years, to extend less challenging targets to small manufacturers and to allow 'eco-innovations' which are not part of the formal emissions tests to be allowed towards the targets.
The briefing indicates UK support for similar proposals by the French and German governments. The French presidency of the EU has already tabled amendments in the Council of ministers that would significantly weaken European commission proposals to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from new cars. The UK continues to press for niche and specialist vehicle exemptions and a long-term target.
ENDS reports that the amendments closely mirror a deal reached between the French and German Governments in June on the draft legislation. It would delay the full introduction of the legislation until 2015, signficantly cut the fines payable by carmakers for missing the targets, and postpone until 2012 the adoption of a binding emission limit for 2020. (The UK is, however, reported to support a new target of 100g/km CO2 for 2020 according to a spokeswoman, reported in The Guardian).
Responding to the reports, Greenpeace said the French proposals "show contempt for the position of the Commission and the Parliament's Environment Committee".
Other critics also claim that it would not be feasible for the Commission to test the claims for emissions reductions for eco-innovations - such as solar roofs and sixth gears made by manufacturers, even though the UK government proposals stress they should be "robust and measurable".
The SMMT said: "It is very appropriate that we address the sustainability of the automotive industry, and perhaps remind ourselves that economic and social impacts are as important as environmental considerations," said Paul Everitt, the SMMT's Chief Executive.
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