Fuel consumption rises

Environment Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho has alerted to a significant rise in fuel consumption.

Speaking in Soure, in the Coimbra district, Carvalho said consumption of diesel, petrol and jet fuel has increased by 4% to 6% compared with the same months last year.

“Consumption of diesel, petrol and jet fuel has been rising, with increases of between 4% and 6% compared with the same period last year,” she said.

Although she stressed that the figures are not necessarily a bad sign, the minister said the scale of the increase was unexpected.

Carvalho also called on consumers to use fuel more sparingly, while arguing that any financial support requested by businesses and the public should be targeted at those who need it most.

The minister also encouraged people to use public transport whenever possible, while acknowledging that this may not be a practical option in every situation.

“Wherever possible, it is important to be mindful of using fuel only when it is essential. We are dealing with a scarce resource, and we need to conserve it,” she said.