Quality of petrol and diesel fuels: level of sulphur

2001/0107(COD)
The common position was agreed unanimously by Council. The provisions are broadly in line with the Commission's proposal although the final date after which all petrol and diesel sold in the Community shall be subject to a maximum sulphur content of 10 mg/kg has been advanced by 24 months to 1 Jan 2009. In the case of diesel the final date of 1 Jan 2009 for complete market switchover to 10 mg/kg remains subject to confirmation in a review which will be completely by the Commission no later than 31 December 2005 instead of 31 December 2006 as originally proposed. The common position will not detract from the environmental benefits of the Commission's proposal in the long term. In the near term, depending on technology developments, the earlier date for final market switchover may slightly alter the balance between air quality improvements and reductions of emissions of carbon dioxide. However, this can be taken into account in the review to be completed by the end of 2005. Thus, the Commission can accept and support the common position.�