Italy’s Industry Minister Adolfo Urso has called for an alliance between Italy, France, and Germany to influence and moderate the pace of European Union laws on reducing car and truck emissions.
Urso emphasized the need for a pragmatic and non-ideological approach to climate change laws and mentioned two draft EU laws, the Euro 7 emission rules and the proposal to cut truck and bus emissions, which Italy intends to stall until their demands for moderation are met.
Furthermore, Urso expressed concerns about the EU’s dependence on China for green technologies and raw materials and called for a broader revision of the ecological transition in 2026.
The EU’s Regulations
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The EU’s regulations on road sector emissions are part of a broader package of policies aimed at achieving the bloc’s targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing party, has been critical of the EU’s decision to outlaw the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035.
One minister described the forced switch to electric vehicles as “suicide” and a “gift” to Chinese industry. Italy’s push for moderation is likely to put it at odds with other EU members, particularly those who support more ambitious climate targets.
Urso’s proposal to team up with France and Germany comes at a crucial time for the EU as it aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels.
EU’s Green Deal
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The EU’s Green Deal, which outlines a range of measures to achieve this target, includes stricter regulations on road sector emissions, such as the Euro 7 emission rules for cars, vans, trucks, and buses, and the proposal to cut truck and bus emissions.
The EU is also planning to phase out fossil fuel subsidies and increase support for renewable energy and energy efficiency measures.
While some argue that ambitious climate targets are necessary to mitigate the effects of climate change, others argue that they could harm industry and lead to job losses. This is particularly true in sectors such as the automotive industry, where a shift to electric vehicles could result in plant closures and job losses.
Why France and Germany?
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Italy, France, and Germany are home to some of Europe’s largest car manufacturers, which could be negatively affected by the new emissions rules.
Urso’s proposal to build an alliance with France and Germany to influence EU climate laws highlights the complex balancing act that the EU must perform as it seeks to achieve its climate targets while avoiding harm to industry and jobs.
While some member states may be willing to accept more ambitious climate targets, others may push for more moderate measures to protect their industries.
credit:google
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The EU will need to navigate these competing interests if it is to achieve its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing the challenges of climate change.
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