(EU. 1 October 2024) – EIT Urban Mobility, an initiative of the European Institute of Technology and Innovation (EIT), a body of the European Union, has today unveiled its latest study, “Costs and Benefits of the Urban Mobility Transition.” This extensive research explores how European cities can navigate the complex journey towards achieving the EU Green Deal objectives for the transport sector by 2030 and 2050, evaluating the financial and societal impacts of various mobility strategies.
The study, an update to the 2021 report, offers a detailed simulation of three transition scenarios across twelve European city prototypes, reflecting the diversity of urban environments within the EU. It reveals that while technology advancements alone could reduce CO2 emissions by 21% by 2030, achieving the Green Deal targets requires much more ambitious measures. The only emission reduction pathway for urban mobility that meets the 2030 Green Deal target involves a 44% reduction in emissions, but it comes with significant challenges in terms of public acceptance and behaviour change.
The study highlights that the most effective measures for reducing private car use, and consequently emissions, involve a combination of attractive public transport, shared mobility options, and access restrictions like low-emission zones. By 2030, these measures could result in a 7% increase in public transport ridership and up to a 16% reduction in private car trips.
Maria Tsavachidis, CEO of EIT Urban Mobility, commented on the findings: “The report underscores the urgency of prioritising the right investments in clean mobility and its positive returns for health and the environment. Public transport emerges as the most affordable and inclusive solution for reducing CO2 emissions. However, this transition is not without its challenges. We need a coordinated effort at all levels—from city to European level —to ensure that the necessary investments are made and that citizens are engaged and supported through this transition.”
By 2050, all three scenarios analysed in the study are projected to meet the Green Deal’s decarbonisation goals for the transport sector, primarily through continued technological advancements and vehicle fleet renewals. The study estimates that reaching these goals will require at least €1.5 trillion in investments1, including €500 billion for implementing and managing various sustainable mobility measures. Although these costs are significant, the study highlights that the benefits—such as reduced CO2 emissions, improved public health, and lower external costs—outweigh the financial outlays.
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 as a result 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.
As Europe races to meet its climate goals, the “Cost and Benefit of the Urban Mobility Transition” study provides a crucial roadmap for policymakers, city planners, and stakeholders to navigate the complex challenges and opportunities ahead. For further information or for the full copy of the study click here.
