Greenhouse gas emissions and Australian transport

This paper presents estimates of total greenhouse gas emissions from Australian domestic transport, and details emissions, by mode, from the urban and non-urban passenger and freight transport sectors. It discusses the magnitude of the task involved in reducing transport emissions, and examines the potential for reducing them by alternative means. These include fuel economy improvements, use of alternative fuels, transport system improvements including modal shift, and reductions in discretionary travel. Some attention is given to the difficulties involved in assessing the costs and benefits of emission reduction strategies to the economy. The dominant role of the private car in generating emissions is highlighted, and the paper concludes that if a substantial and rapid reduction in transport sector emissions is required, it may be impossible to avoid reduction in motor car usage.