By As Karima Delli prepares to bid farewell to the European Parliament after three successive terms, the French Green MEP and chair of the Transport Committee shares her insights on the achievements and challenges of her tenure. Delli’s leadership has been instrumental in bringing transport issues to the forefront of the EU agenda, advocating for sustainable mobility and climate-friendly policies.
During her time as chair of the Transport Committee, Delli has successfully elevated transport issues to a prominent position on the EU agenda. She has championed initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable mobility. Under her leadership, the committee has pushed for the adoption of ambitious climate targets, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector by 90% by 2050.
Delli’s efforts have also focused on improving the quality and accessibility of public transport across Europe. She has advocated for increased investment in rail infrastructure, recognizing the potential of trains to provide a greener alternative to air and road travel. Her work has been pivotal in securing funding for cross-border rail projects and enhancing the connectivity of the European rail network.
Addressing the Challenges of Aviation
One of the significant challenges Delli faced during her tenure was addressing the environmental impact of aviation. She has been a vocal critic of the aviation industry’s carbon footprint and has called for stricter regulations to curb emissions. Delli has pushed for the inclusion of aviation in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and has advocated for the development of sustainable aviation fuels.
Delli’s efforts have also extended to improving passenger rights and safety in the aviation sector. She has worked to ensure that airlines adhere to high standards of service and that passengers are adequately compensated for delays and cancellations. Her advocacy has led to the implementation of measures aimed at enhancing the transparency and accountability of the aviation industry.
Promoting Sustainable Urban Mobility
Delli’s vision for sustainable urban mobility has been a cornerstone of her work in the European Parliament. She has championed policies that encourage the use of public transport, cycling, and walking in urban areas. Delli has advocated for the creation of low-emission zones in cities and the development of infrastructure that supports active travel.
Her efforts have also focused on addressing the social dimensions of transport policy. Delli has emphasized the importance of ensuring that transport systems are inclusive and accessible to all, including people with disabilities and those living in underserved areas. Her work has highlighted the need for a holistic approach to transport policy that considers environmental, social, and economic factors.