ACEA

The automobile industry and climate change - a long-term perspective

• Protecting the natural environment, using limited resources responsibly and mitigating the effects of man-made climate change; this is the sustainability challenge that industrial society cannot ignore.
• Vehicle makers are integral to modern society. They have embraced the challenge, delivering significant environmental progress to date. Manufacturers will continue to play a pivotal role within the context of sustainable growth.
• European manufacturers are technology leaders. Innovation is driving forward cleaner, ‘greener’ and affordable transport. Further progress on CO2 reduction will come from improved powertrains and the development of more renewable energy sources.
• Low-emission vehicles offer the most convincing solution on the road to sustainable mobility. A commitment to obust R&D, infrastructure improvements, energy use and market demand will be needed to accelerate progress.
• CO2 savings will be maximised if well-to-wheel impact is clearly addressed at all stages of the fuel and energy hain.
• All stakeholders must work together to deliver the greatest benefits to society: vehicle manufacturers; fuel and energy producers; architects of urban and national infrastructures; traffic management and logistics providers, and their users; politicians and legislators; consumers, customers and drivers.
• Climate change is a global challenge that affects us all. Solutions must be framed around a global, holistic approach.
• The automobile industry invests heavily in new technologies to tackle the complex questions raised by climate change and other environmental aspects. Active dialogue with all stakeholders is central to its commitment.
• Vehicle makers are determined to reduce their environmental footprint today and to protect the planet for society tomorrow.

last updated 08/05/2009

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