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November 2, 2024
By Rodielon Putol, Earth.com Staff Writer
The COVID-19 pandemic undeniably reshaped our daily routines, including the way we travel. From remote work becoming mainstream to international travel halting almost overnight, pandemic restrictions altered transportation habits globally. Now, nearly five years later, a new study offers insight into how these shifts continue to impact energy consumption and carbon emissions in the transportation sector across Europe.
The study, led by Helena Patiño, a PhD candidate from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), analyzed changes in transportation habits during and after the pandemic, focusing on energy usage and carbon emissions.
Post-Pandemic Transportation Trends in Europe
Findings reveal a complex picture of post-pandemic transportation habits. “Overall, Europeans have reduced car use since the pandemic, but have flown more frequently,” Patiño noted. However, these trends vary significantly across the continent. Some countries have resumed pre-pandemic travel patterns, while others have managed to sustain a reduction in transport usage.
In countries like Austria, Germany, and the United Kingdom, car and plane use returned to near-normal levels, reflecting less pronounced behavioral shifts. Conversely, countries with stricter lockdowns and regulations, such as Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Spain, experienced a substantial post-lockdown increase in travel, as people sought to make up for time spent in isolation.
The Environmental Stakes of Transportation Choices
Transportation remains a major source of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, contributing approximately 37% of global CO₂ emissions. As governments aim for ambitious climate targets—such as the European Union’s goal of reducing emissions by 55% by 2030—the importance of sustainable transportation choices has come to the forefront.
Patiño emphasized the difficulty of achieving lasting behavior changes: “Governments should support environmentally friendly transport options, such as bicycles and electric cars, and lead campaigns to make sustainable transport the preferred choice.”
Lessons from Sweden, Denmark, and the Czech Republic
In certain European countries, pandemic-driven changes have persisted. Sweden, for instance, saw its already high rates of remote work continue to grow. Denmark, known for its extensive cycling infrastructure, has seen an uptick in cycling as Copenhagen residents increasingly opt for bicycles over cars. Similarly, the Czech Republic reported sustained reductions in travel, thanks to continued support for green transportation policies.
These examples show that, with strategic support and infrastructure, sustainable transportation practices can become part of everyday life.
Reimagining Urban Spaces for Greener Transit
The pandemic has spurred a rethinking of urban design to support low-carbon transit options. Many European cities are now prioritizing dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrian zones, and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Urban planners are embracing models like Paris’s “15-minute city,” which envisions a community where residents can meet most of their daily needs within a short walk or bike ride. Such initiatives are not only more sustainable but also encourage healthier, more resilient communities.
A Blueprint for Global Sustainable Mobility
As Europe continues adapting to these new mobility trends, the challenge lies in ensuring these shifts are lasting. Policymakers and urban designers are working on reinforcing eco-friendly practices, from expanding public transit networks to establishing zero-emission zones in major cities. Through sustained efforts, Europe has the potential to lead a global movement toward sustainable urban transport systems that align with both environmental and community well-being goals.
This study, published in Energy Policy, underscores the pivotal role of strategic planning and government support in making sustainable transportation habits the norm.
