European Commission’s warning to Lithuania: failure to meet pollution reduction targets

The European Commission has initiated legal action against four European Union member states, including Lithuania, over their failure to meet air pollution reduction targets.

All EU member states are committed to gradually reducing air pollution during the 2020–2029 period, with the aim of achieving an overall reduction of 14% by 2030.

In Lithuania, road transport remains the largest source of pollution. The country is dominated by an old and highly polluting vehicle fleet, diesel-powered cars remain popular, and the pace of pollution reduction is lagging behind both EU-wide and national commitments.

If the situation does not change, Lithuania faces the risk of financial sanctions and fines amounting to millions of euros, the consequences of which will be felt by all taxpayers, including those who do not own cars.

“So far, one of the most effective measures has been support for legal entities, under which 3,202 electric vehicles were purchased. However, from 2026 onwards, both individuals and legal entities will no longer be able to install charging infrastructure using public support. Exceptions will apply only to socially vulnerable groups and the very smallest companies. This will halt the progress achieved so far,” comments Rugilė Andziukevičiūtė-Buzė, Head of the Transport Innovation Association.

Will Lithuania choose a long-term and consistent pollution reduction policy—one based on incentive measures, easily accessible infrastructure, and solutions that accelerate the development of transport powered by renewable energy? Or will it risk sanctions and an increased financial burden on society?

More details in the MadeinVilnius.lt article:
https://madeinvilnius.lt/naujienos/lietuvos-naujienos/lietuvai-gresia-milijonines-baudos-gyventojams-gali-dideti-mokesciai/