Health advocates join calls for a strong Fuel Efficiency Standard

Health advocates call for a strong Fuel Efficiency Standard to reduce the incidence of asthma, cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, neurodegenerative disorders and premature deaths in Australia, in response to the government’s consultation. 

CAHA joins other transport advocates in recommending a starting Standard limit of 95 grams of CO₂ per kilometre – competitive with the European Union –  by mid-2024. They recommend the Standard tightens over time and reaches zero grams of CO₂ per kilometre (meaning 100 per cent of new car sales are zero emissions) by no later than 2035. This will support Australia’s international commitments under the Paris Climate Accord. 

“A mandatory Fuel Efficiency Standard must ensure new vehicles emit fewer dangerous air pollutants and carbon dioxide emissions. This is an important first step towards a healthier transport system for all Australians,” said Roland Sapsford, CAHA CEO.  

“Right now, Australians are exposed to dangerous air pollution and an array of serious health conditions – particularly children.” 

Sapsford highlighted that exposure to transport-related air pollution may permanently stunt lung growth in children under 15 years, leading to other cardiopulmonary impacts throughout their lives.   

An important aspect of combating disease from vehicle and truck pollution is cleaning up new car exhausts.   

“We know that there is no safe level of air pollution. There are clear links between fuel-related air pollution to heart and lung disease, neurodegeneration and premature deaths. The sooner the Standard limits manufacturers to zero-emissions vehicles, the better,” he added. 

According to Sapsford, Australia is one of just a few developed nations without a Fuel Efficiency Standard. The Commonwealth Government must immediately implement appropriate Fuel Efficiency Standards if Australia is serious about realising the health benefits of climate action and achieving net zero by 2050.    

Related: Medical leaders urge fossil fuel promotion ban, like tobacco

Menchie Khairuddin

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Menchie Khairuddin is a writer Deputy Content Manager at Akolade and content producer for Third Sector News. She is passionate about social affairs specifically in mixed, multicultural heritage and not-for-profit organisations.

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