Single method
The new rules will not oblige transport companies to calculate their GHG emissions. However, if they choose to do so, for instance for reporting, contractual or marketing purposes, or when required by other EU rules, they will be obliged to apply the common EU methodology. The basic principle underpinning the methodology is to count emissions arising from vehicle use and energy provision during transport operations. To enhance accuracy, the agreement prioritises the use of primary data over estimates or default values of GHG emissions, while providing incentives for operators that measure their emissions directly.
Support for small and medium-sized companies
To reduce the administrative and financial burden on companies, in particular for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), MEPs secured a commitment from the Commission to develop a public, simple and free-of-charge calculation tool, backed by manual on how to use it. The Commission is given four years to develop this tool.
Preparing for life-cycle emissions
The preliminary agreement recognises that the current methodology does not yet cover GHG emissions over the full life cycle of transport services. MEPs ensured that within four years after new rules will start to apply, the Commission will assess the possibility of expanding the EU methodology to include life-cycle emissions, such as those from vehicle manufacturing, energy production, maintenance, use and end-of-life, once sufficient data and international progress allow. This assessment will guide future updates of the rules.
Source: European Parliament
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