The EMF is in favour of EU legislation imposing harmonised CO2 emissions targets on the industry. However, in the wake of the publication by the EU Commission of an Action Plan on Energy Efficiency suggesting the possible imposition of a 120mg/km CO2 emissions ceiling on passenger cars, and following the Commission’s position turning down the car manufacturers’ warning that the targets envisaged would threaten employment, Peter Scherrer, the EMF General Secretary, has expressed his apprehension that too stringent targets could aggravate the situation in an industry which is already undergoing serious turbulence and job losses.

Although, the adoption of EU legislation setting targets appears legitimate in view of the threats created by global warming, the EMF urges the Commission to show consideration for possible risks to employment.

In particular, the EMF has called on the EU Commission to adopt an “integrated strategy”, in line with the conclusions of the “CARS 21” consultation initiated by DG Enterprise, and to ensure that the burden does not lie uniquely on the shoulders of the European car industry, its suppliers and workers. Oil suppliers, consumers and local authorities should equally contribute to the fight against global warming.

Finally, the EMF expressed the view that the efforts required by the development of innovative and energy-efficient technologies are a chance for the European Union to resume active and ambitious industrial and R&D policies, as well as education and human capital development policies, in order to foster innovation and better employment conditions for workers.

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PRESS 3/2007

The EMF is the representative body defending the interests of workers in the European metal industry. The EMF has a mandate for the external representation and coordination of the metalworkers' unions and a mandate to engage in bargaining at European level.

For further information please contact:

Editor, Peter Scherrer , EMF General Secretary