Germany slams brakes on emissions targets

EUROPE'S efforts to meet its Kyoto protocol targets for greenhouse gas emissions are heading for trouble after Germany, the driving force behind the continent's emissions reductions for the past 15 years, slammed on the brakes.
Since 1990, Germany has cut its emissions by 17.5 per cent, more than any other country in the European Union. Its Kyoto target is a 21 per cent cut, but on 28 June the environment ministry revealed that it would only require a further 0.6 per cent cut from its major industrial emitters between now and 2010. To make matters worse, it exempted new power plants from any limits until 2022. The government says it will make up the difference by encouraging German motorists, who are now allowed to drive on some highways at unlimited speeds, to drive more slowly.
The announcement came as European nations submitted their proposed emissions targets under the EU's carbon trading scheme. These "pollution permits" cover roughly half of most countries' emissions, but exclude cars.
“Germany's move jeopardises the EU's promise on cutting carbon”
Germany is Europe's largest emitter, and the move jeopardises the EU's promise to cut emissions overall by 8 per cent between 1990 and 2010. Until now, the EU has allowed newer members such as Spain and Ireland to increase emissions, while Germany, the UK and other countries have been forced to make steeper cuts. The UK remains on target after announcing proposals last week that should ensure a 16 per cent emissions reduction between 1990 and 2010.
From issue 2559 of New Scientist magazine, 06 July 2006, page 4