Transport Emissions: The Hidden Cost of Movement
Understanding how different transportation choices impact our climate and environment
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Section 2 of 5The Carbon Footprint of Urban Transport
Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in cities, accounting for up to 40% of urban CO₂ emissions. Every vehicle trip, whether by car, bus, or train, contributes to the climate crisis through fuel combustion, manufacturing emissions, and infrastructure impacts.
The emissions impact varies dramatically depending on the mode of transport, vehicle efficiency, passenger load, and distance traveled. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed choices that reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining mobility needs.
Key Emission Factors
- • Vehicle type and fuel efficiency
- • Passenger occupancy (empty seats = wasted emissions)
- • Distance and frequency of travel
- • Manufacturing and infrastructure emissions
- • Time of day and traffic conditions
Interactive Emissions Calculator
Gasoline Car
Average passenger car
Climate Impact
3.5 tons of CO₂ annually contributes to global warming.
Equivalent Impact
Equivalent to planting 140 trees annually.