"Decarbonisation" of transport no longer in climate change deal as talks continue

Car-sharing and electric cars have been two suggested ways of cutting transport emissions

Car-sharing and electric cars have been two suggested ways of cutting transport emissions

As the UN climate change conference continues into the weekend, the term 'decarbonisation' of transport and other sectors of the economy, and aviation emissions, have both been removed from the draft text of the agreement, it has been reported.

'Decarbonisation' is likely to be replaced by the term 'climate neutral,' which would allow carbon emissions from transport and other sectors with compensatory measures such as re-forestation and carbon capture, according to the French press. Aviation and maritime transport, which could account for a third of greenhouse gases by 2050, are also no longer included in the text, as the UK Government continues to consider airport expansion, it was reported.

There have been calls for financial and political backing for sustainable urban transport during the UN talks, with the International Transport Forum urging low-carbon mobility for mega cities in China and India. But there have been fewer concrete proposals. The host, France, launched a competition for lower-cost electric cars; and Panama outlined a plan to invest in sustainable urban mobility. India has proposed a diesel car ban, but to improve air quality, the BBC reported today.