Combined Transport (Directive)
By introducing new support criteria for "combined transport", the EU Commission wants to shift more freight traffic off the roads and onto railways and waterways. In cep's view, this may reduce CO2 emissions, but there is also a risk that inefficiencies will be subsidised.
cepPolicyBrief
Alternatively, increasing the price of freight transport based on its environmental costs, could give carriers an incentive to avoid the road where rail or ship is cheaper. Limiting initial and/or final road-legs to 150 km, or 20% of the total distance, also creates flexibility and legal certainty. However, the generalised obligation on Member States, to support the necessary investment in transhipment terminals in order to reduce road freight, goes too far.
|