Overview
Current transportation patterns generate significant economic, social, and environmental damage. Globally, transportation consumes more than half our liquid fossil fuels, emits almost one-quarter of our energy-related
carbon dioxide (CO2), generates more than 80% of the urban air pollution in developing countries, results in more than 1.2 million fatal traffic accidents annually, and produces chronic traffic congestion.1
Collectively, the top 25 countries contributing to atmospheric CO2 from transportation account for 88% of global emissions (Figure 1). These numbers include ground, rail, maritime, and aviation transport. Currently, approximately 80% of CO2 emissions from transportation are the result of ground travel; however, the GHG emissions produced by air travel are believed to cause more damage to the ozone layer than ground transportation, due to jet fuel combustion occurring at higher elevations.2
Current transportation systems depend largely on nonrenewable fossil fuel energy sources. The increasing global demand from both developed and developing nations, coupled with dwindling supply, may continue to drive transportation costs higher unless we move to alternative transportation modes and the use of renewable fuels. To reduce the environmental impact of fossil fuel-based transportation networks and offset their significant economic impact, governments around the world are investing in renewable- fuel transit and conducting ongoing research into increasing efficiencies in transportation systems.
Figure 1: Top transportation CO2 emitters include the U.S., the European Union (EU), and China, 2017
Consider what your post’s goals can be to create a more sustainable transportation program for commuting and work travel. Some examples include increasing fuel efficiencies, improving human health, meeting and exceeding emission reduction goals, and working toward solving local traffic solutions. Sites should consider how their actions can support host country policies and priorities for transportation.