Climate Protection Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) expressed understanding for climate activists who remain on the streets in Vienna and other cities and sometimes cause traffic chaos there. In the field of climate policy, the government is currently focusing on the expansion of renewable energy sources. However, the much-cited climate protection law is still a long time coming…
“We are in a hurry when it comes to climate protection, that is the consensus”, Gewessler defended the government’s approach in “ZiB 2”, but “of course we have not achieved our goal”. Because although it has been announced for some time, the climate protection law is still a long time coming. However, the aim now is to have the law revised as soon as possible, the minister said, insisting that much has already been achieved with, for example, the CO2 levy and the railway expansion.
Environmental procedures need to be simplified
However, Gewessler can’t name a specific time when the climate protection law should go into effect: “You know, if I could decide that alone, the law would already be in place.” But in a democracy, a majority is needed for it. Procedures such as environmental impact assessments or approvals for the expansion of renewable energy sources should be accelerated in the new law. However, the law must also be formulated in such a way that it can withstand all authorities, including the Constitutional Court.
“I Understand the Desperation”
Gewessler understands the climate activists trapped in the streets: “I understand the desperation and the will to make your voice heard.” Yet she also understands “the people who are angry about the blockades”. Gewessler reacted cautiously to the tougher penalties promoted by the ÖVP against the actions of the climate stickers, which could block a rescue operation. One should not “instrument blue light organizations” here. According to her, and that of some lawyers she spoke to, the current laws are enough.
There was no final rejection of the fracking project in Molln, Upper Austria: “We have seen that securing the energy supply is a difficult task today. If these projects can contribute to the crisis, then you should check that out. But if it only pays for itself in 30 years, then I say no.’ As the “Krone” reported, the controversial method of obtaining gas should be banned even in Austria in the future.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
