A recent study has found that subsidies for petrol and diesel company cars are costing EU taxpayers a staggering €42 billion every year. The study, conducted by a team of researchers, revealed that these subsidies are fueling the use of environmentally harmful vehicles and contributing to the climate crisis.
The subsidies provided to companies for petrol and diesel cars are aimed at promoting economic growth and supporting businesses. However, the study suggests that these subsidies are counterproductive as they are encouraging the use of fossil fuel-powered vehicles, which are one of the leading contributors to air pollution and climate change.
According to the researchers, the subsidies are causing a distortion in the market by favoring petrol and diesel cars over cleaner alternatives such as electric or hybrid vehicles. This not only hinders efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change but also puts a strain on public health due to increased air pollution.
The study calls for an urgent reevaluation of these subsidies and recommends reallocating the funds towards promoting sustainable and eco-friendly transport options. By shifting the focus to electric and hybrid vehicles, EU countries can significantly reduce emissions, improve air quality, and mitigate the impact of climate change.
With the European Green Deal aiming to make the EU carbon neutral by 2050, the study highlights the importance of reorienting policies and investments towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation sector. By phasing out subsidies for petrol and diesel company cars and investing in clean energy alternatives, the EU can take a significant step towards achieving its climate goals and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of its citizens.
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