A new study commissioned by Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking in collaboration with a Steering Committee representing European rail and logistics stakeholders (CER, CLECAT, EIM, ERFA, ETP-Alice, European Commission – DG MOVE, UIP, UIRR, UNIFE), underscores the critical role of rail freight in developing a competitive and climate-neutral transport system across the EU.
The study carried out by E&Y analyses different ambition scenarios and shows that a strong shift toward rail can deliver substantial reductions in CO₂ emissions, energy consumption, and external costs.
The findings demonstrate that investing in rail freight not only supports decarbonisation but also offers long-term socio-economic returns, contributing to European competitiveness. The study outlines strategic measures and investment needs, reinforcing rail’s position as the backbone of sustainable logistics in Europe. (....)