The European Union has voted to amend the Euro 7 car pollution rules but campaigners argue its not strong enough to address health concerns.
As reported by edie, the regulation has been updated to cover microplastics from tyres and breaks that will continue to cause pollution after the electric vehicle transition.
Despite the upgrade, campaigners argue that the legislation is too similar to the previous Euro 6.
Transport and Environment vehicle emissions and air quality manager Anna Krajinska said: “The Euro 7 passed today is worse than useless. Lawmakers should have the decency to rename it Euro 6F or withdraw it.”
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The EU was under pressure from automotive lobbyists who argued car manufacturers would have to commit resources and engineers to “to combustion engine technology which will become obsolete in just a few years from now” under a stronger legislation.
City network Eurocities said the Euro 7 vote showed “the interests of the automotive industry prevailed over concerns for those who are deeply affected by air pollution”, adding that the Parliament is making cutting air pollution in cities “more and more difficult”.
MEP Alexandr Vondra said: “We have successfully struck a balance between environmental goals and the vital interests of manufacturers.
“It would be counterproductive to implement environmental policies that harm both Europe’s industry and its citizens.
“Through our compromise, we serve the interests of all parties involved and steer clear of extreme positions.”
