Initially conceived as an anti-recessionary shield, the scrappage scheme has not only helped the car market and manufacturers keep themselves afloat.
Successfully established in some 14 EU member states and currently extended in 8 countries, this measure has also given the environment some breathing space. From €500 to €2,500 (around £432 to £2,162) depending on the country, the schemes have meant notably that millions of old vehicles, which are, de facto, heavier polluters than new ones, have been disposed of and have also accelerated the renewal of the European car fleet.
The result: average CO2 emissions have decreased (by up to 8% in Italy in a year), as have atmospheric pollutants and engine noise levels. And vehicle safety has improved.
The scrappage scheme, often accompanied by other incentive measures, contributes to a virtuous circle that favours more environmentally friendly vehicles. Sales of small-engined and alternative models (hybrids, LPG and CNG) greatly increased in 2009.
Marcel Green and Sustainable Mobility are starting a new partnership together … And it’s all happening in the “Interviews” section!
