More than 18 months of work have culminated in the signing of the regulation that sets a 2030 target for the reduction of CO2 emissions from passenger cars by over 37%. This law was negotiated by Member of the European Parliament Miriam Dalli and will come into force in January 2020.

“The signing was the last step resulting in a law that reduces road transport emissions in all EU Member States, including Malta. I have no words to describe the satisfaction felt today when I know that, I departed from a situation facing a lot of resistance and today this law enjoys the strong backing of both the European Parliament and Member States,” Dr Dalli said in reaction to the signing.

“I now look forward to its implementation by the Member States. Reaching this stage was not easy but I consulted everyone - from industry players and stakeholders to trade union and consumer organisation – for a law whose objectives can be met if everyone does their part.”

Miriam Dalli presided over the signing of the agreement that took place in Strasbourg between European Parliament President Antonio Tajani and Minister George Ciamba, President in office of the Council of the EU. This law forms part of the Clean Mobility Package and contributes to the targets agreed by leaders in the Paris Agreement against climate change.

It is a regulation that applies automatically and uniformly to all EU countries without needing to be transposed into national law. The aim is for the car manufacturing industry to invest in technology producing cleaner cars whilst encouraging Member States to implement policies that support this transition.

This law will not only result in environmental and health benefits but it will also help to increase innovation in a more competitive market, leading to more advantageous prices for consumers.