08.05.2008

European hauliers face environmental tolls

European HGVs could soon have to pay for the pollution, traffic congestion and noise they cause if controversial European Commission proposals get the green light. The Commission is putting the finishing touches to proposals that would hit road hauliers with special new toll fees for the environmental damage their trucks cause. "It looks like there will be a pretty ferocious battle in the months ahead with some countries resistant to any idea of tolls," an official close to EU Transport Commissioner Jacques Barrot said.

The French commissioner wants hauliers to invest in less polluting trucks while also giving a boost to other, greener modes of transport such as trains or canals. Currently, 75 per cent of all goods in Europe are transported by road, putting strain on the environment.

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