Transport remains Europe’s most persistent climate challenge. While rail offers a low-emission alternative for moving people and goods, Europe’s continued reliance on road transport is keeping greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions high, according to a report published today by the European Environment Agency.
Transport is essential to modern society and the European economy, supporting more than 10 million jobs and contributing around 5% of the EU’s gross domestic product. At the same time, it is the only major sector where greenhouse gas emissions have increased since 1990. In 2023, transport accounted for roughly a third of total EU greenhouse gas emissions, with road transport responsible for the vast majority, according to the Sustainability of Europe’s mobility systems 2025 report, published today.
Reaching the EU’s objectives — including climate neutrality by 2050 and the Zero Pollution targets for 2030 — requires sustained efforts. Yet, despite progress in reducing exhaust emissions over recent decades, transport also continues to exert significant pressure on the environment and human health. Emissions of certain pollutants, including ammonia (NH3) and nitrous oxide (N2O), remain difficult to reduce, while noise pollution from transport continues to affect millions of people across Europe.
Sustainability of Europe's mobility systems 2025 (....)