What's Happening?
A coalition of organizations, including T&E, UNEP, ETSC, CMC, and OPUS RSE, is calling on European lawmakers to address the legacy of the Dieselgate scandal by removing high-emitting cars from roads. The scandal, which involved automakers cheating on emissions tests, resulted in millions of cars emitting pollutants far above legal limits. The coalition is advocating for systematic fleet screenings, roadside inspections, and mandatory fixes or scrappage of these vehicles at the manufacturers' expense. They also urge the EU to prevent the export of these high-polluting vehicles to other regions.
Why It's Important?
The Dieselgate scandal has had long-lasting environmental and health impacts, with many of the affected vehicles still on the road. Addressing this issue is crucial for reducing air pollution and its associated health risks, which include premature deaths. The coalition's call to action highlights the need for stronger regulatory measures to ensure compliance with emissions standards and to prevent the transfer of pollution to less wealthy regions. Successfully addressing this issue could set a precedent for holding manufacturers accountable and improving air quality across Europe.
What's Next?
The coalition's recommendations may influence upcoming revisions to the EU's 'roadworthiness package,' which could include stricter emissions testing and enforcement measures. European lawmakers will need to consider the economic and logistical implications of removing or fixing millions of vehicles. The automotive industry may face increased pressure to develop cleaner technologies and to address past compliance failures. The outcome of this initiative could impact international trade policies and environmental standards, particularly regarding the export of used vehicles.
