Motorists in London to pay 'green' charge for parking

London, October 1 (ANI): Reports indicate that a local authority in London has become the first in the world to charge motorists for parking on the basis of how "green" their vehicle is.

According to a report by Sky News, Richmond upon Thames is to charge drivers varying prices based on the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of their vehicle of choice.

Those who drive gas-guzzlers will pay 25 percent above the standard rate, while those who drive eco-friendly cars will pay 25 percent less than the standard rate.

The aim, according to the LibDem-controlled council, is to encourage motorists to use greener vehicles and therefore help local and national government to meet their targets for emissions.

The council has officially said it wants to make some 556,000 pounds in extra revenue and we see this latest move as purely punitive - an easy way to get extra income.

"Global warming is one of the greatest challenges of our lifetime and many people simply don't realise the influence on the planet that their choice of vehicle makes," said councillor David Trigg.

"Providing clear signals, through situations which people encounter on a daily basis, is the very best way to spread this essage," he added. (ANI)