Totschnig sees climate neutrality by 2040 as "the ultimate challenge"

To achieve the climate goals, "everyone must participate," said Agriculture Minister Norbert Totschnig (ÖVP). Investments from the economy are also necessary, which must be accordingly prepared for this.

Totschnig: Economy also challenged in climate neutrality

He never fundamentally criticized the EU's "Green Deal," but rather the excessive bureaucracy. "We stand for green growth," stated Totschnig. The deforestation regulation with the obligation to apply for a reference number is an example of excessive bureaucracy. If someone has a small forest or wants to utilize a fruit tree, they must submit an application. "If a carpenter uses four types of wood for a table, they need four numbers," said Totschnig.

Regarding the climate law currently being developed, the minister said it concerns the responsibilities of the ministries, but the states and municipalities must also be involved. The government program has set climate neutrality by 2040. "But that is the icing on the cake," noted the minister. The EU's guidelines are primarily binding. However, after three years of recession, the economic location must also be strengthened. "The transformation of the economy towards renewable energy will only succeed with a economically strong Austria." Costs of 6 billion euros annually cannot, according to Totschnig, come from the public sector; the economy is challenged here, Totschnig points out.

Totschnig skeptical about Mercosur

Regarding climate-damaging privileges, Totschnig refers to the climate bonus, which was abolished. The costs were more than twice as high as the revenues from CO2 pricing. And there was no climate relevance. On the other hand, there are enough regions in Austria where one relies on cars, Totschnig justified this measure. In terms of subsidies, it is often not about the amount, but about the efficient use of funds, Totschnig added. In agricultural foreign trade, 90 percent is accounted for by the European area, Totschnig noted regarding the Mercosur agreement. "We are against the conclusion of this agreement, but we are closely examining the draft to see if there are measures to cushion market disruptions."

Criticism from the Greens of Totschnig

The Greens were disappointed with Totschnig's appearance: "A friendly demeanor and many nice words do not bring the Austrians a millidegree less heat in their homes," said the Green climate protection spokeswoman and former Environment Minister Leonore Gewessler in a statement. On the contrary: "The hot air that Agriculture Minister Norbert Totschnig produced today shows that Austria has lost all ambition in environmental and climate protection." Criticism of the minister also comes from the FPÖ. "Instead of finally clearly opposing the destructive Green Deal of the EU, which massively burdens our farmers, our businesses, and ultimately every single citizen, the ÖVP once again tries to present itself as a moderate mediator between reason and green ideology," said FPÖ environmental spokesman Thomas Spalt. However, Totschnig "goes along with every EU nonsense."

(APA/Red)

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