Topic

Decarbonisation

Transport, especially road transport, is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, accounting for almost a quarter of the region’s emissions. It is also a leading cause of air pollution in urban areas. In response, the European Commission’s Green Deal, which includes the 2020 Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, lays out a plan to transform the EU transport system to reduce its environmental impact. The strategy aims to achieve a 90% reduction in transport greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, contributing to the EU’s overarching goal of climate neutrality by that same year.

A comprehensive decarbonisation effort requires the integration of multiple sectors and stakeholders. The transition towards a cleaner urban mobility system must encompass various modes of transport, from public to private, and freight operations. POLIS supports this transition through various working groups and task forces, each dedicated to enhancing environmental sustainability.

POLIS also partners with global initiatives like the Sustainable Low Carbon Transport (SLoCaT), advocating for sustainable transport policies in the context of global climate change action and sustainable development.


The role of alternative fuels in decarbonisation

Decarbonising transport relies heavily on the deployment of clean and alternative fuels, such as biofuels, hydrogen, natural gas, and electricity. These fuels reduce harmful pollutants (eg, particulate matter, NOx) and greenhouse gas emissions while also addressing noise pollution. Local governments, including cities and regions, play a pivotal role by facilitating the uptake of alternative fuels through measures like procurement strategies for clean vehicles and the development of supportive infrastructure (eg, charging hubs).

 

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