Proposed EU law could see pollution tolls for haulage drivers
Date: 06 May 2008
Europe and the UK's haulage companies could have to pay specific fees for any pollution and road delays they cause, if reports of a new European Union (EU) regulation plan prove founded.
EU Business claims the European Commission is putting together a plan that would lay down toll fees for environmental damage caused by freight, in proposals that could arrive as early as June.
It is thought the commission spent Monday and Tuesday canvassing the opinions of EU transport politicians at a Slovenian meeting before working on finer points of the plan.
An official linked to EU transport commissioner Jacques Barrot told the publication: "It looks like there will be a pretty ferocious battle in the months ahead with some countries resistant to any idea of tolls."
Satnav tracking or electronic payment methods could be used to enforce any directive that comes about, with member states allowed, but not obliged, to enforce the policy on heavy haulage firms using their roads.
Money could then be ploughed into more sustainable forms of transport and a set weight limit for what type of haulage vehicle qualifies for fees is likely.
The European Commission is the governing body of the EU, which oversees and suggests policy.
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