The AAA (Australian Automobile Association), which represents motoring bodies including the NRMA and RACQ, has today agreed to assist the motoring public by supporting a carbon trading scheme in a bid to reduce greenhouse gases.

Executive Director Mike Harris said the Association’s commitment to “assist and encourage motorists to reduce and offset their greenhouse gas emissions” was the first in a series of policies to be released next year.

Considering private vehicles account for 8 per cent of the dangerous gases emitted annually, the proposals flagged by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd now having motoring body support is seen as a big step forward. The proposals will utilise market based carbon trading schemes rather than a government imposed tax regime.