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80mph speed limit is bad for the economy and climate
30 September 2011
Plans to increase the motorway speed limit to 80mph will hurt people's pockets and the planet, while making a mockery of David Cameron's aim to lead the 'greenest government ever', says Friends of the Earth.
Driving at faster speeds increases fuel consumption, costing consumers and businesses extra during an already difficult time for the economy.
Road transport accounts for over 20 per cent of the UK's carbon emissions and driving at higher speeds increases the amount of CO2 vehicles produce.
Enforcing the current 70mph limit would save about a megatonne of carbon per year, according to researchers.
The Government is also considering extending the number of 20mph zones in towns around the country.
Friends of the Earth's Transport Campaigner Richard Dyer said:
An 80mph speed limit will mean drivers burn more fuel - putting an extra strain on people's wallets and business costs at a time we can least afford it.
"And it will increase carbon emissions just as we urgently need to reduce them to help protect us all from dangerous climate change.
"Raising the motorway speed limit seems like a cynical move to please a few Tory voters and makes a mockery of David Cameron's aim to lead the 'greenest government ever'.
"More 20mph zones will help cut CO2 and make our streets safer for cyclists and pedestrians."
ENDS
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Published by Friends of the Earth Trust
Last modified: Sep 2011
