Rising Trend: Estonia's Fossil Fuel Usage in Transportation Remains on an Upward Trajectory Based on Recent Surveys
In the heart of Northern Europe, Estonia has submitted its preliminary emissions data for 2024 to the European Commission, shedding light on the country's progress towards meeting EU-wide emission targets.
The data reveals a complex picture. While emissions from production units belonging to the emissions trading system decreased by 14.5 percent year on year, reaching approximately 4.5 million tons of CO2 equivalent, emissions from the road transport sector saw a nearly 7 percent increase.
The Estonian Environmental Research Center, responsible for the initial approximate emissions estimates, highlights that over half of the trips made in Tallinn are under 10 kilometers, making them prime candidates for replacement with less environmentally harmful modes of transport.
Short trips, indeed, contribute to air pollution, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions. Cris-Tiina Paärn, the coordinator of the greenhouse gas inventory, emphasizes that everyone can contribute to mitigating climate change through their choices.
The road transport sector's highest emissions originate from Harju County. Paärn also states that greenhouse gas emissions reflect changes taking place in society. She notes that when fossil fuel prices are lower, their use increases, and resulting emissions are higher. Conversely, when prices rise, as was the case with natural gas consumption in Estonia in 2022, emissions decrease.
The preliminary data does not include figures from the land use sector. The final and verified greenhouse gas emission data for 2024 will be available by March 2026.
Paärn's words underscore the importance of societal changes in reducing emissions. She encourages everyone to make conscious decisions that contribute to a greener future. By choosing less polluting modes of transport for short trips, Estonians can play a significant role in reducing their carbon footprint.
As the country continues to navigate its emissions landscape, the focus remains on finding sustainable solutions to combat climate change and promote a greener, healthier Estonia.
Read also:
- Federal petition from CEI seeking federal intervention against state climate disclosure laws, alleging these laws negatively impact interstate commerce and surpass constitutional boundaries.
- President von der Leyen's address at the Fourth Renewable Hydrogen Summit, delivered remotely
- Unveiling Innovation in Propulsion: A Deep Dive into the Advantages and Obstacles of Magnetic Engines
- Intensified farm machinery emissions posing challenges to China's net-zero targets
