The European Commission adopted recommendations to Member States how to address the complex challenges of transport poverty across the EU notably in the context of the upcoming Social Climate Plans.
The Social Climate Fund is expected to mobilise at least €86.7 billion as from 2026. It will provide significant financial support to help Member States implement structural reforms and advance sustainable, inclusive mobility.
To access these fundings, Member States are required to develop national Social Climate Plans by end of June, outlining targeted measures and investments to support vulnerable groups affected by the new emissions trading system.
One possibility is through social leasing schemes for zero-emission vehicles, targeting vulnerable transport users, as outlined in the Automotive Action Plan. Additionally, the Commission recommends improving transport services in low-income areas, developing public transport infrastructure to connect these areas to city centers, and implementing voucher programs for public transport, zero-emission on-demand services, and enhanced accessibility for people with disabilities.
In support of these efforts, the Joint Research Centre has launched the Transport Poverty Hub, an online platform providing high-resolution maps, that help visually identify areas with well-developed and underdeveloped transport networks, providing valuable insights to policymakers into regional connectivity.
For more information:
Commission Recommendation on transport poverty: ensuring affordable, accessible and fair mobility
Annex to the recommendation on transport poverty: ensuring affordable, accessible and fair mobility
Source: European Commission | Mobility and Transport | News & Events | News (https://tinyurl.com/yt599apy)