Decarbonisation
Decarbonisation
Decarbonising public transport solves two connected problems: climate change and air pollution, both caused by using fossil fuels. Climate change is about reducing greenhouse gases globally, while air pollution focuses on local issues like harmful particles (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). Switching public transport to clean energy and sustainable methods lowers emissions and improves health, especially in busy cities. Short-term actions, such as stricter pollution rules and raising awareness, support the bigger goal of using no fossil fuels at all.
Key challenges
- Zero-emission buses often struggle to meet service demands, while high production costs and vehicle prices slow adoption.
- Limited structural financing, competing priorities, and restrictive asset-linked support hinder long-term investment.
- Transitioning brings administrative burdens, while pandemic-related budget strains further delay progress.
- Stronger transport authorities are needed to drive effective decarbonization policies.
Common practices
- Invest in deploying zero-emission buses and supporting fuel infrastructure to meet diverse transport needs.
- Build a sustainable green hydrogen supply chain with clear regulations, and address the environmental impact of grey hydrogen. Consider biomethane as a transitional solution.
- Develop efficient battery recycling systems to minimize waste and optimize resource use.
- Equip public transport authorities with clear mandates and resources to drive decarbonization.
- Provide accessible funding to cover high costs and overhead while addressing post-COVID financial strains to ensure long-term sustainability.
Relevance to public transport and UPPER
Decarbonisation aligns with the EU UPPER project by focusing on zero-emission public transport to achieve climate neutrality. UPPER prioritizes sustainable urban mobility, supporting the European Green Deal’s 2050 goal and the Cities Mission’s 2030 target for climate-neutral cities. Both aim to make public transport central to sustainable, low-emission urban ecosystems.