The EESC supports the greening of transport, but stresses that the energy transition must be fair and provide viable and realistic alternatives that take account of the specific economic and social features and needs of all parts of Europe, including rural areas.

This is the main message of an opinion drawn up by Pierre Jean Coulon and Lidija Pavić-Rogošić and adopted at the Committee's June plenary session. In its assessment of the 2011 White Paper on Transport, which aims to break the transport system's dependence on oil without sacrificing its efficiency and compromising mobility, the EESC takes a firm stand.

Limiting modes of transport is not an option: the aim should be co-modality, not modal shift. In addition, the ecological transition must both be socially fair and preserve the competitiveness of European transport, with full implementation of the European Transport Area as part of the Single Market. Delays in this respect are regrettable.

"Curbing mobility is not an alternative. We support any measures aimed at making transport more energy efficient and reducing emissions", said Mr Coulon. "Europe is going through a period of headwinds, but this should not lead to changes of course in terms of social and environmental expectations of the various European initiatives."

The EESC also encourages an open, continuous and transparent exchange of views on the implementation of the White Paper. "The Committee draws attention to the importance of securing the support of civil society and stakeholders, including through participatory dialogue", added Ms Pavić-Rogošić. "A good understanding and broad acceptance of strategic goals will be extremely helpful in achieving results." (mp)