CER and UNIFE fully support reaching the specific targets set by the Commission: notably, GHG emissions from transport should be reduced by at least 60% by 2050 compared to their 1990 levels; 30% of road freight over 300km should shift to rail or waterways by 2030, and 50% by 2050; the length of the high-speed network should be tripled by 2030, and by 2050 the majority of intermediate-distance overland passenger travel should go by rail.
In this respect, the rail sector welcomes the European Parliament’s proposal to set an intermediate target for an overall reduction of GHG emissions from transport by 20% in relation to 1990 levels by 2020.
The European rail sector also applauds Parliament’s support for moving towards the full internalisation of external costs. This is a policy commitment that CER and UNIFE have long been advocating as it is vital for the creation of both a sustainable transport system and a level playing field for competition between modes.
The rail associations welcome MEPs’ commitment to evaluate the situation of the single wagonload market and to consider allowing member states to support this activity in light of its economic, social and environmental benefits. This could help increase capacities and volumes of this sector, making it more attractive for both users and operators.
CER and UNIFE regret the adoption of an amendment on megatrucks, which was heavily debated ahead of the vote. A possible future authorisation of the use of megatrucks would be highly contradictory with the broader aims of the White Paper. It would result in reverse modal shift of freight from rail to road, increased CO2 emissions and costly additional investments to adapt road infrastructure. The associations therefore welcome that the text specifies that any changes to and standardisation of loading units must demonstrate benefits in the form of fuel savings, lower emissions and improved road safety.
The ongoing review of the TEN-T policy will be a first step towards bringing transport infrastructure in line with the objectives of the White Paper. Like the European Parliament, the rail associations call upon Member States to implement the core network and to ensure adequate and reliable financing of TEN-T projects.
CER Deputy Executive Director Libor Lochman highlighted: “In order to reach the White Paper targets, we will need to set the right price incentives to change users’ behaviour and induce modal shift. Creating a legislative framework that ensures fair competition between modes on a level playing field through full internalisation of external costs and the elimination of counterproductive tax exemptions will be key.”
Philippe Citroën, UNIFE Director-General, said: “After years of constructive discussions between transport stakeholders and the European Institutions, it is now time to act to make European transport more sustainable. The European Rail Industry is keen on implementing the set of measures proposed by the Commission in its Transport White Paper. For this to happen we are fully committed to deliver energy efficient and sustainable systems to promote rail growth”.
 European Rail Sector Grosh White Paper Report Press Release | [ ] | 374 Kb |