Transportation is the backbone of modern society, moving people and goods around the globe. However, it is one of the largest sources of fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Shifting to sustainable mobility involves a broad spectrum of measures and solutions for all modes of transportation. This transformation is in deploying electric vehicles (EVs) and establishing end-to-end, multi-modal mobility systems and technological developments in shipping and flying culture.
Beyond Electric Cars: Towards Multi-modal Mobility
Electric cars have gained enormous traction in recent years. In 2024, EVs accounted for 14.6% of new car sales globally, with China taking the lead at 25% penetration, followed by Europe at 21%. This growth is driven by battery technology advancements, increasing environmental consciousness, and government support. The transition to EVs is not without challenges. In Europe, for instance, manufacturers are confronted with costly production and competition from lower-priced models. The collapse of Swedish battery maker Northvolt revealed the difficulty of having an independent EV supply chain in a continent.
The future of green mobility goes beyond mass adoption of EVs. Multi-modality is an integrated amalgamation of various modes of transport to create a comprehensive and efficient mobility system. It involves expanding autonomous automobile networks and emerging micro-mobility like e-bikes and e-scooters transforming city transport. Such options offer the versatility of low-emission modes of transport for short-distance mobility, which partially replaces traditional cars and reduces traffic congestion in the city.
Challenges and Solutions
The European Union (EU) has set ambitious targets to reduce transport emissions by 90% by 2050 as part of its climate neutrality commitment. Notwithstanding this, the transport sector remains a significant polluter, accounting for approximately 29% of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2022. Strong policies, smart investments, and changes in demand are necessary to propel a shift towards cleaner modes of transport and reduce the sector’s environmental impact.
To address these challenges, the EU has implemented the Urban Mobility Framework to improve the quality of urban life by solving problems such as air pollution, traffic congestion, and accessibility. The framework prefers sustainable transport modes such as incorporating public transport systems, constructing cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, and using smart mobility technologies.
Sustainable Aviation
The aviation industry, which accounts for approximately 2% of global greenhouse gas emissions, is actively pursuing sustainable options to reduce its carbon footprint. One of the key areas of concentration is the production and utilization of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs), produced from renewable materials like agricultural waste, and reducing aviation CO₂ emissions by approximately 70%.
Design improvements for airplanes also enhance sustainability. Airbus, for instance, is experimenting with new “albatross” wing designs modeled on the bird’s thin, long wings. Made lighter using carbon fiber and with a new folding design, the new wings can be more fuel-efficient and have less carbon impact.
Also, airlines like Universal Hydrogen are gearing up to electrify current fleets with hydrogen engines, looking toward passenger use in 2025. Electric aircraft is changing, too, as companies such as Eviation aim to have electric propulsion on a regional airliner. These innovations, combined with collaborative initiatives between the industry and supportive policies, pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future for aviation.
Sustainable Practices in Maritime Shipping
Shipping, responsible for approximately 3% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, also witnesses a dramatic shift towards sustainability. Innovation in shipping practices is key to reducing sea freight’s environmental impact.
One notable initiative is the revival of wind-assisted propulsion. Modern sail-assisted cargo ships, such as the Grain de Sail II, use advanced sail technology to harness wind power, significantly reducing the reliance on fossil fuels. Such ships demonstrate that a marriage of traditional wind power and modern technology can effectively reduce emissions in shipping.
In addition, the development of alternative fuels is gaining momentum. Recently, for instance, an ammonia-powered tugboat sailed for the first time, showing the potential of carbon-free fuels in shipping. Ammonia as a fuel produces zero carbon, and therefore it is a promising solution for making shipping operations carbon-neutral.
Additionally, companies including Amazon and IKEA are teaming up with the Zero Emissions Maritime Buyers Alliance to promote using near-zero emissions e-fuels in shipping. The alliance will leverage collective purchasing power to drive demand for low-carbon fuels to decarbonize ocean freight
The transition to sustainable mobility is a multifaceted challenge involving integrating various transport modes and adopting new technology across the automotive, aviation, and shipping sectors. Investment in technology, policy favor, and collaboration is necessary to accelerate this transformation and achieve global sustainability goals. By embracing electric vehicles, developing multi-modal transport systems, advancing sustainable aviation practices, and implementing eco-friendly shipping strategies, our global system will move toward a more sustainable and efficient transportation future.
Maritime transport, responsible for approximately 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, is also significantly transforming toward sustainability. Innovations in shipping practices are crucial to reducing the environmental impact of sea freight.
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