EU 2040 Climate Target: Contributions of the transport sector

The EU is legally obliged to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and has an interim target for 2030 of reducing net GHG emissions by 55% compared to 1990. The European Climate Law also requires the EU to adopt a climate target for 2040. In its communication of 6 February 2024, the European Commission recommends a net emission reduction of 90% by 2040 when compared to 1990. The ESABCC (2023) recommends 90–95% net reductions. The indicated target range means that all sectors will have to contribute significantly.

This paper explores the past contribution of the transport sector to already achieved emission reductions as well as its contribution to the upcoming 2040 climate target and what it takes for this sector to achieve the related emission reductions.