According to ORF News, there is apparently movement again in the long struggle for a climate protection law. Environment Minister Norbert Totschnig has submitted a first draft to the coalition partners SPÖ and NEOS. The minister wants to focus on cooperation rather than bans in the law.
The planned law is intended to provide the framework for coordinated action to achieve climate targets. Norbert Totschnig stated, 'It is based on the three pillars of climate protection, climate change adaptation, and circular economy. ' It will also be defined how experts and the population are involved.
What is apparently missing are specific sanctions if the requirements are not met. Totschnig said, 'What we do not have in the law are bans or these classic automatisms that are often discussed and come into force when a target is missed. ' Rather, all those who bear responsibility will be held accountable.
Coalition partner NEOS already identified need for discussion in the draft. Climate spokesperson Michael Bernhard saw some points that need to be renegotiated. , only 2050.
Bernhard also lacks binding commitments for the various sectors and, above all, effective automatisms if climate targets are missed. The reactions of the other coalition partner SPÖ to the draft are unknown. The next steps in the legislative process for this climate protection law remain to be determined.