News 04 Mar 2020

CER welcomes Climate Law, calls for greater focus on ‘green transport’

On 4 March, the European Commission proposed a European Climate Law to pave the way for a legally binding EU commitment to climate neutrality by 2050. The Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) notes this important deliverable of the EU Green Deal as a step in the right direction. Reaching zero emissions by 2050 must be reflected in all relevant Union legislation and policies. 

Since achieving these climate objectives requires the contribution of all economic sectors and society, CER heartily welcomes the launch of the public consultation on the European Climate Pact, also announced today as part of the EU Green Deal package. Railway companies are ready to work with partners to deliver sustainable solutions in the transition to a carbon-neutral economy.  

CER Executive Director Libor Lochman said: “The European Climate Law should serve to trigger ambitious climate action that can take the EU forward on its greenhouse gas emission trajectory through accelerating the shift to sustainable mobility. By linking climate, energy and transport policies, we can effectively reduce the environmental footprint of transport and enhance affordable mobility at the same time. CER will be making concrete proposals to promote rail as the backbone of sustainable mobility throughout 2020.

Regarding the announcement to make 2021 the European Year of Rail, he added: “We very much support the Commission’s proposal to make 2021 the European Year of Rail. This will be the perfect occasion to showcase rail’s unbeatable advantages when it comes to modernising and greening Europe’s mobility sector.