Doc. 8026
16 February 1998

Mobility education programme to ease traffic congestion in urban areas and reduce the dangers of pollution associated with the “greenhouse effect”

Motion for a recommendation

presented by Mrs Squarcialupi and others

This motion has not been discussed in the Assembly and commits only the members who have signed it

The Assembly,

1.       Considering the very limited results of the Kyoto Conference for detoxifying the planet of the gases contributing to the “greenhouse effect”;

2.       Regarding as insufficient the 6% reduction provided for in the agreement, which will reduce the increase in atmospheric pollution by a mere 29%;

3.       Convinced that in addition to major projects such as the use of renewable energy sources, increased efficiency of large plants, modernisation of the railways and greater promotion of public transport, other improvements could be achieved through changes in certain lifestyles;

4.       Noting that in some countries such as Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany and in some towns in other European countries, political and administrative initiatives have already been taken to encourage the use of bicycles;

5.       Noting that in the countries in transition, the increase in private motor vehicle use is leading to levels of congestion and pollution already experienced by other European countries;

Recommends that the Committee of Ministers:

i.       promote a programme for education in the use of alternative means of transport, in particular the bicycle, not only for leisure activities but above all for mobility in urban areas;

ii.       combine this project with environment and health protection education and with the enhancement of urban areas;

iii.       ask the Council of Europe member states which have acceded to the Kyoto agreement to sign it as soon as possible so that it will become binding.

Signed : ¹

Squarcialupi, Italy, SOC

Corrao, Italy, SOC

Diana, Italy, EPP/CD

Lauricella, Italy, SOC

Lorenzi, Italy, NR

Martelli, Italy, EDG

Solé Tura, Spain, SOC

Speroni, Italy, NR

Staes, Belgium, EPP/CD

Stepova, Czech Republic, SOC

Turini, Italy, EDG