The European Environment Agency published a web report on the sustainability of Europe’s mobility system in October. It assessed the progress achieved towards meeting climate neutrality by 2050, as set out in the European climate law. The report states that the transport sector, unlike other sectors, still faces challenges in reducing levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and pollutants. In 2022, GHG emissions from the transport sector accounted for a quarter of total EU emissions.
The report discusses the development of transport mode shares in the overall transport volume, considering both passenger and goods transport, and evaluates progress towards climate neutrality.
Key findings include:
- Passenger cars remain the preferred mode of transport, with their numbers increasing in recent years.
- Long-distance train connections gained momentum due to renewed customer interest in sleeper services, but require further expansion to serve as a viable alternative to passenger cars.
- Road freight transport is expanding rapidly, outpacing growth in rail freight, with both sectors expected to see continued increases.
- Aviation and maritime transport’s share of Europe’s total transport GHG emissions is projected to increase from 26 % in 2022 to 47 % by 2050.
- Policy measures and subsequent technological developments have led to a decrease in emissions for most air pollutants related to transport activity.
The report states that the sustainable transition of Europe’s mobility system must accelerate, requiring ongoing public and private investment in innovation and technology, alongside the implementation of existing EU legislation. Ambitious policy measures are essential to reduce inefficient transport demand and encourage a shift towards more sustainable transport modes.
Read the full report here.
Author: Claus Koellinger