Brussels – July 20, 2016
On July 20th, the European Commission presented its ‘European Strategy for Low-Emission Mobility’. The strategy features ‘a package of measures to accelerate the transition to low- emissions in the Transport sector, following the EU’s goal set during the Paris Agreement and within the framework of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.
The Road Transport sector in Europe is responsible for over 70% of the transport greenhouse gas emissions, therefore the transition to a low-emissions mobility is needed and should not be delayed: in this context, the Investment Plan for Europe and the efforts of cities and local authorities are pivotal to encourage a modal shift towards active travel (Cycling) and shared mobility schemes (E-Bike sharing).
Member States, the European Parliament and the Committee of the Regions all support the inclusion of cycling at the highest levels of EU policies, while the focus of the European Commission in its strategic document seems more oriented on other means of transportation rather than bikes and e-bikes.
The Commission’s communication can be found here.