Green measures and individual responsibility

The government is showing the political will to safeguard the environment. Next year it will be investing €130 million on the proposed wind farm project. It has allocated €112 million for environmental projects and €30 million towards alternative energy projects. Budget 2009 provides for substantial assistance on the installation of domestic photovoltaic systems, on double glazing as well as on roof insulation. The government will also be giving rebates on the purchase of solar heaters and it will be fulfilling its electoral promise to distribute five energy saving bulbs to every household.

Eco-contribution on plastic carrier bags and the reform in car registration and licenses are all environment-friendly measures based on the polluter pays principle. The introduction of higher license fees for swimming pools and yachts is based on the same principle. The National Energy Efficiency Action Plan tabled in Parliament during the budget speech and plans in the pipeline to overhaul the public transport system clearly demonstrate that the government truly means business.

In spite of these various measures, environmentalist groups have criticised the budget. Although there is more to be done, there is a limit to how much a government can offer in a given year. The environmentalist groups' attention should also be directed towards the responsibility we all bear to protect the environment. What is each and every one of us doing to help?