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Is combined transport working?

June 19, 2014

The Commission is consulting on whether EU rules on combined transport are working or need updating. Combined transport – which is generally taken to mean freight movements that are largely by rail or water but with the start and end by road – is regulated by an EU directive dating from 1992. It aims to promote combined transport through reducing restrictions, eliminating authorisation procedures, and offering financial support through fiscal incentives for certain combined transport operations.

With the EU’s transport white paper in 2011 stressing the need for freight transport to contribute towards Europe’s climate objectives, the Commission is asking whether the combined transport directive is being helpfully implemented – both economically and in terms of producing environmental gains – and whether an update would be desirable.

Philippa Edmunds, freight on rail manager at the UK’s Campaign for Better Transport and T&E board member, said: ‘In some EU countries, lorries pay less than half of the total costs they impose on society, which makes it extremely difficult for sustainable modes to compete; hence the need for combined transport regulations to recognise the economic, safety and environmental benefits of rail and water.’

The consultation runs until August 15, and contributions must be submitted electronically. More details are available at: https://ec.europa.eu/transport/media/consultations/2014-combined-transpor…

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