TLN is positive about the EU's ambition to become more sustainable more quickly and to oblige member states to build charging and refueling infrastructure for zero-emission freight transport. However, the introduction of an ETS system potentially leads to an unreasonable increase in the burden for entrepreneurs. Recently, the European Commission announced the Fit for 55 package. A series of proposals to reduce CO2 emissions in Europe by 2030% by 55.

Charging infrastructure
TLN is particularly positive about the binding targets for member states to realize charging and refueling infrastructure for more sustainable fuels and electricity. That basic infrastructure along important freight corridors is crucial to stimulate entrepreneurs to make the transition to zero-emission transport, TLN emphasized together with ECTA earlier.. The revision of the energy tax, based on the 'polluter pays' principle, is also positive, according to TLN.

Accumulation
TLN is critical about the introduction of an ETS system for road transport. Carriers already pay tax via the Eurovignette and toll levy (and in the future also truck levy) based on the transported weight and emission class of vehicles. Although TLN supports the 'polluter pays' principle, it is important that transporters do not pay twice for the same CO2 emissions when introducing an ETS system. That would be an unreasonable burden increase.

 

Unfair competition
In addition, it seems that within freight transport, only road hauliers fall within that ETS system, giving other modalities a competitive advantage. Certain measures, such as the tax reduction for sustainable fuels, are also too non-committal and offer the EC member states a lot of room to further flesh out legislation and regulations themselves. This can increase unfair competition between Member States. TLN emphasizes what must be prevented.

Sustainability
TLN supports the European Commission's sharpened ambition to make road transport more sustainable and to realize the agreements in the climate agreement. This package is therefore an important step in the right direction. It remains important that the transition to emission-free transport is affordable and realistic for entrepreneurs. There is therefore still plenty of work to be done in Brussels now that the Council and the European Parliament will consider the Commission's proposals. TLN therefore calls on the European Union to continue to encourage entrepreneurs to make the switch to emission-free transport and not to penalize them. This is possible with the right mix of measures and incentives Transport and Logistics Netherlands

Also read: 35% more caravans registered in the first half of 2021

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