The bar chart provides information about CO2 emissions produced by various modes of transport in the European Union, while the pie chart illustrates how the EU budget is distributed across these transport sectors.
Overall, it can be seen that air travel produces by far the highest amount of CO2 per passenger kilometre, whereas the lowest emissions come from rail transport. In contrast, most of the European Union’s funding is allocated to road and railway infrastructure.
Looking first at CO2 emissions, air transport generates around 400 grams of CO2 per passenger kilometre, which is significantly higher than any other type of transport. Passenger cars are the second largest polluters, producing approximately 160 grams. Buses and coaches emit nearly equal amounts, at around 80 and 60 grams respectively, while maritime and rail transport release the least carbon, both under 50 grams.
In terms of funding, more than half of the EU’s transport budget (52%) is spent on road infrastructure, followed by 31% on railways. Public transport accounts for 10% of spending, while ports, inland waterways, intermodal systems, and airports receive only minor shares, ranging from 1% to 2% each.
