2016-09-02
MEDIA RELEASE
Climate authority tells government to get its act together on clean transport
The Greens have called on the government to listen to its Climate Change Authority’s advice to create a clean transport future.
The Authority’s report Towards a Climate Policy Toolkit recommends light vehicle emission standards, possible heavy vehicle emission standards and better urban planning to focus on public transport.
“The report outlines a clear direction we need to take to make our transport systems work for people and the climate,” said the Greens spokesperson for transport and infrastructure Senator Janet Rice.
The Authority noted that:
- Australia is unusual in not having a fuel efficiency standard for carbon emissions
- Australian fuel efficiency lags behind other countries.
- “shifting commuters from cars to public and active transport can reduce traffic congestion and emissions”
- “to achieve this mode shift, Australian cities need public transport that is frequent, reliable, affordable, safe and comfortable”
“The current pattern of funding massive polluting toll roads has resulted in carbon pollution from transport increasing by 25 per cent since 2000,” said Senator Rice.
“The government must take their authority’s advice and start investing in a clean transport future, including public transport and freight on rail.”
MEDIA CONTACT: Sam Drummond 0400 352 935