[HIGHLIGHTS] Driving bans on weekends: “Cheap sleight of hand” or sensible climate protection?

Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing (FDP) initiated a new debate about the federal government's climate protection law on Friday (April 12) The Climate Protection Act stipulates that Germany will reduce emissions by 65 percent compared to 1990 by 2030. This year, 22 million tons of CO₂ equivalents would have to be saved in transport in order to achieve the goals.

German Environmental Aid (DUH) has sued the government for inadequate measures to comply with the immediate climate protection program in the transport sector. DUH Federal Managing Director Jürgen Resch told the RND that he was now expecting a ruling that would oblige the Ministry of Transport to implement an immediate program. A speed limit of 100 on motorways, 80 outside towns and 30 in the city alone saves more than half of the amount at over 11 million tonnes. Further measures could include the abolition of the company car privilege and a reduction in the rail usage fee for freight, Resch said. The Federal Environment Agency also sees no need for driving bans.