Freight traffic produces seven million tons of CO2 annually. Every third trip is an empty trip, in the border area every fifth. The Verkehrsclub Österreich (VCÖ) criticizes the preferential treatment for diesel and calls for a shift to rail.
What motorists perceive subjectively is confirmed by the data from the highway counters. Freight traffic is increasing. The leader is Haid (Upper Austria) on the A1 with 5.5 million trucks per year, followed by Biedermannsdorf (Lower Austria) on the A2 with 4.6 million. Of course, our consumer behavior also has a major influence – goods are often transported over thousands of kilometers. Every third trip is an empty trip.
Twice as much as in 1990
The big hum recently caused about seven million tons of CO2, which is more than twice as much as in 1990, when it was still three million tons. A comparison with rail makes it clear how important it would be to switch to rail: while rail accounts for only about five grams per tonne-kilometre, the large Transit semi-trailers weigh an average of 69 grams.
Thus, freight traffic causes emissions that are almost 14 times higher, as explained by the VCÖ. In addition, there are harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in diesel vehicles. As a transit country, it is important for Austria that a minimum toll for trucks is introduced throughout the EU, the VCÖ emphasizes.
Sectoral driving bans
A solution based on the example of the sectoral driving bans is obvious: rail-related goods must primarily be transported by rail. This also relieves the pressure on the roads, causes fewer accidents and traffic jams, and less road damage. Free movement of goods does not mean transporting everything by truck.
Due to the high tolerance limits of the federal states, many trucks drive faster than permitted. It is also important that the great potential of operational sidings is used in Austria: goods are transported directly from the company to the rail. Eliminating the tax incentives for diesel – which Transit trucks all use – would also be an important step.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
