Reducing CO2 emissions from the transportation sector

Panel: Panel 3: Mobility and Transport

Author:
Iben SPLIID, Danish Council for Sustainable Energy

Abstract

In 1990 the Danish Government of the day together with a broad majority in the parliament decided that the CO_2 emissions from the transportation sector by 2005 should be stabilised on the 1988 level. However, the goal is far from being fulfilled and has therefore been re-evaluated lately. To qualify the debate on the CO_2 emissions from the transportation sector, the Danish Council for Sustainable Energy has had performed an analysis containing a series of calculations that highlights the possibilities to reduce CO_2 emission from the transportation sector by 2005 and by 2012. This analysis included seven different means including e.g. fuel tax or road pricing. The means are combined in a number of packages each fulfilling the CO_2 reduction goals. The results confirm the general opinion that there are no easy solutions. They show that it is neither possible to reach the original goals, nor to "bend the curve" unless the most efficient measures are put into effect, i.e. for example the fuel price and reduction of the tax deduction for transportation. Furthermore, the Danish Council for Sustainable Energy has had an analysis made on the administrative and legal responsibilities of the policies and measures within the transportation sector. The measures were also analysed with respect to the interests and the barriers to implementation. This analysis included nine different measures. The evaluation showed that road pricing will give maximum CO_2 reduction and include minimum barriers. Both studies were performed by COWI, a Danish consultant.