Blanche Weber, the president of the Ecological Movement (Mouvéco), stated that Mouvéco is "disappointed" in the entire government, including the Green Party, regarding their environmental policies.
Minister for Mobility and Public Works François Bausch countered that his party does not only stand for climate protection, but for an entire programme which connects climate protection, economy, and society.
However, Bausch did acknowledge that implementing the changes necessary to meet the climate targets is "a Herculean task". In order to make this happen, Bausch explained, it is important to motivate people in a positive way and present them solutions.
The Minister stated that he, for instance, is not implementing policies "against cars", but "for a different mobility". Weber agreed with the Deputy Prime Minister on this point, stressing the importance of showing people that their quality of life will improve thanks to policies that protect nature.
However, Weber also added that she feels there is not enough "political will" amongst the members of the government to find solutions together. Bausch rejected her argument by stating that making comprises is "good and important".
Mouvéco's president did not back down, however, accusing the Green Party of having "lost sight of its principles" as part of the three-party coalition. Weber pointed to the planned Google data centre in Bissen as an example, stating that the Green Party does not take enough interest in the potential water consumption of the project.
Grants for electric and hybrid vehicles to be extended
Bausch confirmed that state grants for the purchase of electric or hybrid cars, a programme which runs out at the end of March, is to be extended. However, they will also be adjusted in certain aspects: The amounts will in the future be adapted to the social situation of the applicant as well as the consumption of the car. The new draft bill is to be presented to the state council on Wednesday.
Plug-in hybrid cars will continue to be subsidised, but a transition phase will be introduced. In the future, the state will only support the purchase of fully electric vehicles.
The grant for the purchase of an electric bicycle will not be significantly amended, Bausch added.
