German government report finds total decarbonisation of the transport sector is possible

A report from a 10-year German government-led project spearheaded by the Öko-Institut has found that a total decarbonisation of the transport sector is possible. The ‘Renewbility’ project looked at solutions for all of Europe and its work was supported by German and Swiss-based research institutions.

 

The project, which was initiated by the German environment ministry concluded its third phase with the message that a mixture of greater efficiency and renewable energy can result in a complete decarbonisation of transport, leading to environmental and economic sustainability.

 

The researchers concluded that, unless there is a large move towards e-vehicles, attempts to decarbonise transport will have negative consequences for the economy. They say the best solution would be to eventually have only e-vehicles on roads, leaving electricity-based fuels (like ‘power to liquid’) solely for means of transport like aviation and maritime transport where they say there are no realistic alternatives. To this end, they encourage decision-makers to work towards the phasing out of the internal combustion engine by setting ever stricter emissions limits for lorries and cars, and increasing taxes on petrol and diesel.

 

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