At its latest Plenary session of 31 January – 1 February 2024, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) adopted an opinion on the “Greening Freight Transport”-package of the European Commission. It covers the legislative proposals on “rail capacity and traffic management”, “harmonised measurement of transport and logistics emissions”, the “revision of weights and dimensions in road transport” and the “revision of the combined transport Directive” and was drafted by rapporteur José Ribau Esteves (PT/EPP).
In this opinion, the CoR highlights the need for decarbonisation in road transport through increased weights and dimensions for zero- and low-emission trucks but would like to underline that certain regional aspects need to be taken into consideration, especially in regions where freight transport is already negatively impacting on the traffic situation and the road infrastructure. Concerning combined transport, the CoR underlines that a reverse modal shift must be avoided.
In terms of rail capacity and traffic management, the current allocation of capacity, decided on an annual basis and per Member State, is no longer appropriate or adequate, impacting negatively on this sustainable mode of transport. Although the best way to address this remains through construction and upgrade of infrastructure, the actions proposed under the package would certainly help to improve capacity in this sector.
European Shippers’ Council (ESC), representing over 100,000 freight transport companies across Europe, stands in full support of the recent policy recommendations issued by the European Committee of the Regions. ESC welcomes the comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at making freight transport more efficient and sustainable throughout Europe. These recommendations underscore the urgent need for strategic measures to address environmental concerns, enhance connectivity, and promote modal shift initiatives.
ESC emphasises the importance of strategic investments in rail infrastructure, intermodal connectivity, and incentives for sustainable transport options. These measures are crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting environmentally responsible practices, and fostering a more sustainable freight transport system. ESC recognises the critical importance of improving connections between residential areas, production sites, and logistics hubs. Enhanced intermodal connectivity is essential for optimizing transport services, reducing environmental impacts, and fostering economic growth.
ESC advocates for improved rail capacity and interoperability to facilitate modal shift initiatives and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. ESC stands ready to collaborate with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the wider community to drive positive change and promote sustainable freight transport practices across Europe. As the voice of the freight transport industry in Europe, ESC reaffirms its commitment to working closely with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the wider community to drive positive change and promote sustainable freight transport practices across Europe.
For the full text of the opinion, please see here.