(EU. 28 January 2025) – EIT Urban Mobility, an initiative of the European Institute of Technology and Innovation (EIT), a body of the European Union, is spotlighting findings from its study, “Cost and Benefit of the Urban Mobility Transition” to celebrate the International Reducing CO2 Emissions Day (28 January).
The study offers a detailed simulation of three transition scenarios across twelve European city prototypes and reveals that sustainable urban mobility is within reach but requires substantial investments and bold urban planning. By 2030, technological advancements in mobility could reduce CO2 emissions by 21%, but meeting the Green Deal’s 55% target will demand €1.5 trillion in funding by 2050, with €500 billion allocated to sustainable mobility initiatives.
Effective measures identified include enhancing public transport, promoting shared mobility, and implementing access restrictions like low-emission zones, which could increase public transport ridership by 7% and cut private car use by 16% within the decade. By 2050, these strategies, combined with technological innovations and fleet renewals, are expected to align with the Green Deal’s decarbonisation targets. While the financial investment is substantial, the projected benefits like emission reductions, improved health, and cost savings demonstrate a clear net positive impact.
First unveiled in October last year, the study remains highly relevant as cities around the globe ramp up efforts to tackle the climate crisis and strive to meet ambitious CO2 reduction targets.
Yoann Le Petit, Thought Leadership manager at EIT Urban Mobility, and author of the study, commented on the findings: “The International Reducing CO2 Emissions Day reminds us of the critical role cities play in tackling climate change. Our study shows that investing in sustainable urban mobility systems pays off, with the benefits being 1.5 times higher than the costs. As Europe races to meet its climate goals, our study aims to serve as a roadmap for policymakers, city planners, and stakeholders to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities ahead.”
In addition to emission reductions, the study points to significant public health benefits. A shift towards more active modes of transport, such as walking and cycling, could lead to cumulative health savings of up to €1,170 per capita by 2050, driven by the benefits of a more active lifestyle. Moreover, improvements in road safety are anticipated, with potential reductions in road traffic fatalities by up to 70% by 2050 because of safer infrastructure and the adoption of intelligent transport systems.
The research underscores that, regardless of a European city’s characteristics, prioritising public transport is essential for a fair and sustainable urban mobility transition. Public transportation provides an ideal compromise between CO2 emission reductions and investments, but also is the only inclusive mobility option for all segments of the population. Even when accounting for infrastructure and investment costs, public transport stands out as an affordable option for inclusive and low CO2 emissions, and one of the most realistic and practicable approach to meet the Green Deal objectives.
For further information or for the full copy of the study click here.
