The European Parliament (EP) has backed a 20% reduction of CO2 emissions from light vehicles by 2020, and a 40% cut by 2030. Member states' environment ministers will meet on 9 October to agree a position on the matter, with the Austrian presidency reportedly advocating a 35% target. Environmental groups like Transport & Environment had warned that, if passed, the amendment would allow carmakers to double count biofuels and alternative fuels, thanks to a provision already included in the finalised Renewable Energy Directive. The European Commission had proposed a 30% reduction by 2030. In an interview with German newspaper Die Welt, EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik said that he was "convinced" that Europe could achieve its target without any additional measures.
The European Parliament (EP) has backed a 20% reduction of CO2 emissions from light vehicles by 2020, and a 40% cut by 2030. Member states' environment ministers will meet on 9 October to agree a position on the matter, with the Austrian presidency reportedly advocating a 35% target. The European Commission had proposed a 30% reduction by 2030. In an interview with German newspaper Die Welt, EU Environment Commissioner Janez Potočnik said that he was "convinced" that Europe could achieve its target without any additional measures.