Mobility Policy

Abstract

Transport accounts for about 10–15 percent of CO2 emissions in many countries. In many EU countries, rail transport is considered to be environmentally friendly; in fact, rail transport does indeed have a strategic role to play in terms of climate protection. However, does the railway deliver what it is supposed to; what does it take to get the service quality of the punctual Swiss SBB in other EU countries? In many countries around the globe, high-speed trains are an important part of national infrastructure. If trains run on 100 percent renewable energy, then rail travel is very environmentally friendly. However, in addition to long-distance transport, local rail transport must also be considered. Good networking, high levels of punctuality and good service—including functioning toilets—are indispensable from the customer’s point of view. Rail systems are complex, and they function differently. In China and the EU, as well as in Russia, there are well-developed rail systems. In Germany, the passenger rail transport system is considered to be extremely successful but has in reality considerable weaknesses. When it comes to mobility policy, the first thing to do is to take a look at rail policy as a problem in Germany and other countries. In addition, the introduction of electromobility in Europe will be addressed.