Europe’s transport sector is set to save 20 million tonnes of CO2 this year, thanks to the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), according to a new analysis by Transport & Environment (T&E).
However, these gains are being offset by a surge in aviation emissions, highlighting the uneven progress in decarbonizing the continent’s transport systems. While the shift to EVs marks a significant step forward, the reliance on fossil fuels in aviation and shipping underscores the challenges ahead in achieving Europe’s climate goals.
Transport emissions in Europe fell to 1.05 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2024, down from 1.1 billion tonnes in 2019—a 5% reduction. This decline is largely attributed to the growing number of battery electric vehicles on the road. T&E predicts that close to 9 million EVs will be operational in the EU by the end of 2024, preventing an additional 20 million tonnes of CO2 emissions. To put this into perspective, this saving is equivalent to the annual emissions of seven coal-fired power plants.
Despite the progress in reducing road transport emissions, Europe remains heavily reliant on imported fossil fuels. In 2024, the continent sourced 96% of its crude oil and 90% of its natural gas from overseas. While Europe also depends on imports for critical battery materials like lithium (100%), nickel (75%), and aluminum (58%), these materials can be recycled, unlike fossil fuels.
T&E’s analysis reveals that over its lifetime, an EV will consume only 20 litres of materials for its battery, compared to over 12,400 litres of fuel for a combustion engine car. This stark contrast underscores the long-term sustainability of EVs. However, the transition to electric mobility comes at a cost: Europe spent €250 billion on oil imports in 2024 alone, highlighting the economic burden of continued fossil fuel dependency.
Aviation and Shipping
While road transport emissions are declining, aviation and shipping remain significant challenges. Europe’s airlines emitted 143 million tonnes of CO2 in 2024, a nearly 10% increase compared to 2023. Shipping emissions also remain stubbornly high at 195 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e), as both sectors continue to rely heavily on fossil fuels.
The inclusion of shipping in the EU’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) is a step forward, with the sector expected to raise €5 billion in revenues in 2024. By the end of the decade, this figure could rise to €30 billion annually, according to T&E estimates. These funds could be used to bridge the price gap between green e-fuels and traditional fossil fuels, accelerating the decarbonization of aviation and shipping.
The EU’s carbon market revenues from aviation and shipping present an opportunity to invest in sustainable alternatives, such as green e-fuels and advanced battery technologies. Yet, the success of these initiatives will depend on sustained political will and targeted investments.
Stay updated on the latest in energy! Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X for real-time news and insights. Don’t miss out on exclusive interviews and webinars—subscribe to our YouTube channel today! Join our community and be part of the conversation shaping the future of energy.
