Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing has cautioned against pursuing a one-sided climate protection policy that targets car traffic. He believes that focusing solely on reducing car usage could have significant consequences for transport policy, similar to the recent controversy surrounding the Building Energy Act. Wissing expresses concern about those who advocate for anti-car policies, citing the ongoing debate over the heating law as an example of where such measures can lead.
The heating law has generated widespread protests and has been a source of contention between various political parties. Although it was initially set to be passed in the Bundestag, it was ultimately halted by the Federal Constitutional Court. A decision on the law is now expected to be made after the summer break. Wissing fears that similar resistance and opposition could arise if there is an overly aggressive approach to reducing car usage.
The transport sector consistently surpasses the climate targets set by the federal government, with car traffic being a significant contributor to emissions. To address this issue, local municipalities play a crucial role in encouraging individuals to utilize greener modes of transportation, such as buses, trains, and bicycles. The law mandates a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from transport by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. However, the current political measures are insufficient to achieve this goal, according to the Federal Environment Agency.
Wissing argues for a more balanced approach, stressing the importance of considering both urban and rural areas when formulating climate policies. He believes that it is a mistake to dismiss the car as unnecessary, emphasizing the importance of developing climate-neutral technologies instead. Wissing underscores the need for the state to remain open to technological advancements in the pursuit of climate neutrality in the transport sector.
