Question for written answer E-005106/2017 to the Commission
Axel Voss (PPE)
In many of the Member States there are now, in addition to vignettes, eco-stickers and emissions stickers to regulate vehicle access to different low-emission zones. For EU citizens travelling within the EU, this means a considerable administrative burden and in practical terms leads to problems of windscreen space for cars when vignettes are also used. The common emissions standards in the EU mean mean that comparability for cars within the EU should not be a problem.
Will the Commission answer the following questions on this matter:
- Is the Commission planning to put forward proposals for a common system of eco-stickers or rules for the mutual recognition of eco-stickers throughout the EU?
- If not, why not, and what alternatives does it envisage?
Answer given by Ms Bulc on behalf of the Commission (3.10.2017)
The Commission has launched a detailed study on access regulations, including for low emission zones, which will also identify best practices. The results should be published in the autumn of 2017.
The study shows that there are different ways in which low emission zones can be enforced, beyond using manual stickers, for example through technological solutions.
Further Commission activities to be deployed in 2018 will build on the outcome of this study, of course taking into account subsidiarity principles. The Commission's primary role remains to facilitate exchange of information and of good practices, supporting cross-border cooperation, the harmonisation of practices, and the interoperability of intelligent transport systems.
