The agreement between the members of the new German coalition government weakens the conditional 2020 climate change target, emphasising industrial competitiveness and job creation and promising more industry-friendly rules for emissions trading. It will introduce a new tax incentive for vehicles with particulate filters and supports the G8 dialogue process on climate change and energy.
The coalition says it will be guided by the principle of sustainable development. It recognises the challenge of climate change and the likely conflict over energy prices and distribution of energy and raw materials. Its solution is in the joint strategy of improving energy/resource efficiency whilst expanding renewable energy/renewable raw material use.
Climate Change
The goal is limiting global temperature increases to two degrees Celsius against pre industrial levels. Actions for Germany:
- further develop Germany's climate change programme including additional measures to meet Germany's Kyoto target.
- aim for a post Kyoto international climate change agreement by 2009, which includes obligations on other developed countries and fast developing countries tailored to their abilities.
- agree to a GHG target of more than 30%, if the EU agrees to reduce its GHG emissions by 30% by 2020 (Comment: the previous Government's conditional commitment to 40% has not be taken on).
- take forward a new partnership between developed and developing countries in line with the G8 initiative. This will aim for improvements to energy supply, energy efficiency and renewables. This partnership will complement a binding international climate change agreement. It is not an alternative.
- introduce a CO2 and pollution-based vehicle tax to incentivise efficient vehicles.
- support the ACEA voluntary agreement to reduce vehicle emissions by 2008. Biofuels might be used to met the envisaged 2012 target.
- take forward the development of alternative fuels in cooperation with industry.
Environment and Transport
The government will work with industry to develop alternative fuels and engines. A revenue-neutral tax incentive will be introduced to encourage the retrofitting of particulate filters. From 2008, new vehicles without a filter will attract a tax penalty. The HGV toll will further reflect CO2 emissions and the Aircraft Noise Act will be amended to take into account the needs of residents, safety and noise.
Sustainable Development
The Government's work at a domestic, European and international levels will be underpinned by sustainable development. Existing institutions such as the Green Cabinet, the SD Council and the Parliamentary Council on SD will be continued.
The 150-page text is available in German here.
