Race2Paris: New Study Underlines Necessity to Tackle Transportation Sector

Think Tank Network SET-NET Launches New Study on Transportation Sectors Across Seven EU Member States and Broader EU Level.

Cover image
  • Newly established socio-ecological think tank network (SET-NET) working on climate policies joined forces for study on transportation sectors
  • SET-NET highlights need for European-wide efforts as cross-country collaboration is vital, as well as identified indispensable national measures in the combat against climate heating
  • Transport remains the only major economic sector in the European Union where CO2 emissions have risen since 1990

Amsterdam/Berlin/Brussels/Madrid/Prague/Rome/Vienna, January 23 2025 – The Race2Paris study of the transportation sectors across seven EU member states, as well as the broader EU level, reveals the immense scope of the transformation needed to align with climate goals. A transition from fossil fuel dependency to sustainable, low-emission mobility systems is critical to achieving these objectives. “With regard to the alarming development that transport emissions in the EU are likely to reach a peak of almost 800 million tons of CO₂ this year, we need irrevocable commitments to measures and goals that have already been agreed upon and the courage to go the extra mile in the fight against the climate crisis instead of the bare minimum”, warns Moritz Neujeffski, author of the German and European case studies. Tackling this colossal challenge requires massive public investments to effectively curb emissions and shift toward sustainable transportation practices. 

Recognising the pivotal role of transportation sectors in determining a country’s ability to meet the Paris Agreement goals, the findings emphasise the urgency of strategic interventions. Each nation faces unique challenges, necessitating tailored solutions. Yet they also face common problems such as underinvestment of public railway infrastructure. Another common thread among all nations is the imperative to shift freight transport from roads to more eco-friendly rail tracks, underscoring the need for intensified efforts on this front. 

Among the countries examined, Germany faces the dual challenge of increasing railway investments and overcoming the powerful car lobby’s resistance to a highway speed limit and the phase-out of combustion engines. Similarly, both Austria and Belgium struggle with the excessive reliance on company car systems, requiring a comprehensive reform to align with sustainable mobility objectives. Meanwhile, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic are witnessing a sharp rise in environmentally damaging SUVs, adding to their emissions challenges. In rural regions of Italy and Spain, the lack of sustainable transportation infrastructure remains a significant barrier to progress. 

A key finding of this report is that the transportation sector’s transformation is not only crucial for individual countries but is a collective imperative for the EU as a whole. “Especially for Austria, where the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) and the conservative People's Party (ÖVP) will likely form a coalition and have already presented radical cuts in measures combatting climate heating as part of an austerity package, it is vital that the EU sets an effective and thus binding climate policy framework for its member states”, urges Barbara Schuster, author of the Austrian case study.

The study suggests that the success of mitigation efforts hinges on the alignment of policy interventions, public investments, and industry cooperation. As we navigate the complex landscape of transportation transformation, Race2Paris underscores the need for a harmonised, multifaceted approach. The path forward demands a commitment to tailored strategies, considerable financial investments, and cross-border collaboration. Only through such concerted efforts can the EU member states hope to reshape their transportation sectors, paving the way for a sustainable and environmentally conscious future. “We are running out of time. The goals pledged for with the Paris Agreement are no longer reachable in the dedicated time horizon, amplified by Trumps withdrawal. However, climate scientists warn us that every tenth of a degree matters. Therefore, it is more vital than ever to continue the fight against climate heating – transport as one of the main drivers for emissions needs to be tackled especially. The European Green Deal falls short of meeting the scope that is actually needed, nonetheless the European Union and its member states need to stick to commitments and rather expand and improve their climate policies to be truly effective”, concludes Alessandro Montebugnoli, co-author of the Italian case study

The following recommendations are derived from the analysis of the seven countries and the broader EU level:

  1. Free public transport for all. To address the accessibility of public transportation, it is crucial to make temporary cost-reduction measures permanent, especially considering the cost of living crisis. Ensuring affordable options for the poor and young people will contribute to increased usage and reduced reliance on individual vehicles.
  2. European transport sector investment plan. Implementing a financially powerful investment initiative at the European level is imperative for revitalising railway infrastructure across all member states. This comprehensive approach will not only enhance connectivity but also promote environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
  3. Boost night trains. A fundamental shift in the legislation governing international train journeys is necessary. Night trains have to be established as a viable and attractive alternative to flights. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of reducing CO2 emissions associated with air travel and fostering sustainable transportation options.
  4. Stop privatisation of the public transport infrastructure. To counteract further privatisation and liberalisation of railway and public transportation infrastructures, robust legislation is needed. Stricter laws should be in place to protect and enhance public alternatives, fostering a culture less dependent on individual cars and more supportive of sustainable, shared modes of transportation.
  5. Make SUVs unattractive. The surge in SUV registrations poses an unnecessary strain on the climate. Therefore, it is crucial to revise existing company car systems. SUVs should only be used when they are essential for operational purposes or activities that specifically require such vehicles. Furthermore, parking fees should be adjusted in the future to reflect the weight and size of the vehicle, promoting more climate-friendly transportation choices.
  6. Implement best practices in urban planning. To pivot existing urban planning regimes towards promoting more environmentally-friendly transportation methods, cities must prioritise the development of comprehensive public transit networks and dedicated bike lanes. This involves reallocating street space to prioritise pedestrian paths, cycling infrastructure, and expanding public transportation options, thereby reducing reliance on personal vehicles. Additionally, integrating green spaces and implementing urban policies that promote (electric vehicle) car-sharing schemes can further encourage a shift towards more sustainable transportation modes.
  7. Consider ethics and impact of electric cars. While electric cars are often seen as a transformative solution, it is essential to critically assess their impact. This includes evaluating environmental and social impact of mining resources required for electric car production and combating the exploitation of workers in the global South. Prioritising sustainable and ethical practices in the electric car industry and prioritising electric public transport over individual electric car use is paramount.

Download the full report

About SET-NET
The socio-ecological think tank network (SET-NET) was founded in response to escalating social inequality, the deepening climate crisis, and the surge of populist and far-right parties across Europe. As a group of six founding members from across Europe, we want to contribute to a just and ecologically sustainable transition of our economies and societies. By collaborating across borders and political scales within the EU, we aim to strengthen our collective impact on European and global policy issues. Founding members are: Corporate Europe Observatory (Belgium), Centro der la Riforma dello Stato (Italy), Fuhem educacíon ecosocial (Spain), MINERVA progressive denktank (Belgium), Momentum Institut (Austria) and Transnational Institute – TNI (Netherlands).

Contact for press inquiries

Nina Spurny 
Momentum Institute
nina.spurny@momentum-institut.at
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