With the cost of fuel at an all-time high and potential supply shortages, there have been calls to tackle our use of oil. In a 10-point plan outlined by the International Energy Agency (IEA) measures included a ban on Sunday driving.
Also on the list was encouraging alternatives such as walking and cycling as well as cutting the cost of public transport. It is thought the 10-point plan could cut global oil demand by 2.7million barrels per day.
Dr Fatih Birol is IEA executive director. He said: “As a result of Russia ’s appalling aggression against Ukraine, the world may well be facing its biggest oil supply shock in decades, with huge implications for our economies and societies", reported Birmingham Live.
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Other measures included cutting the motorway speed limit to 64mph and promoting more efficient driving for freight lorries and delivery vehicles. The use of high-speed and night trains instead of planes where possible was also mentioned.
Dr Birol continued: “IEA Member Countries have already stepped in to support the global economy with an initial release of millions of barrels of emergency oil stocks, but we can also take action on demand to avoid the risk of a crippling oil crunch. Our 10-Point Plan shows this can be done through measures that have already been tested and proven in multiple countries.”
Responding to the latest fuel price figures, RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: "Monday marked the first day this month where average fuel prices didn't reach new record heights. Prices steadied with very slight reductions in both petrol and diesel, perhaps indicating that retailers may have finished passing on their increased wholesale costs for the time being."
The IEA's 10-point plan in full:
- Cut speed limits by at least 6mph
- Work from home up to three days a week where possible
- Car-free Sundays in cities
- Cut the cost of public transport and encourage alternatives such as walking and cycling
- Alternate private car access to roads in large cities, for example, giving access to those with even plate numbers on some days and odd numbers on others
- Increase car sharing, check tyre pressures and turn down air conditioning
- Promote efficient driving for freight lorries and delivery vehicles
- Use high-speed and night trains instead of planes where possible
- Avoid business air travel where alternative options exist
- Reinforce the switch to electric and more efficient vehicles
Simon Williams continued: "To put things in perspective for drivers, the delivered wholesale price of petrol currently stands at £1.30 and diesel at £1.48. With prices this high before retailer margin and 20% VAT are added, it's clear we are in a tough place when it comes to being able to afford to drive.
"This is why it's crucial the Chancellor takes decisive and meaningful action in his spring statement that helps hard-pressed drivers and businesses."
