According to a recent study by Greenpeace, European cities have better connectivity by plane than by train. The analysis found that existing infrastructure could support the creation of 305 new direct train connections between cities in Europe. Greenpeace compared train and flight connections between 45 major European cities and highlighted the potential for improving direct train routes.
In the current scenario, train travel from Paris to Copenhagen involves changing trains twice, resulting in longer travel times and higher costs compared to air travel. However, popular routes like Paris-Rome, Madrid-Paris, and London-Berlin currently lack direct train connections, despite being among the most frequently used flight routes in Europe. Greenpeace suggested that introducing direct train routes on these popular paths could significantly reduce travel times.
Greenpeace advocates for a new EU rail strategy that prioritizes trains over flights, reduces train tolls, and introduces a kerosene tax to discourage air travel. The organization calls for the promotion of direct train connections between European cities to encourage sustainable travel practices and reduce carbon emissions.
Out of 990 routes between cities analyzed, only 12 percent could be covered by direct trains while the number of direct flights was significantly higher. Popular routes like Paris-Rome, Madrid-Paris, and London-Berlin currently lack direct train connections despite being among the most frequently used flight routes in Europe.
According to Greenpeace’s analysis, there is significant potential for improving direct train routes between European cities. However, this requires investment in infrastructure and a shift away from relying on planes as the primary mode of transportation.
The environmental organization has called on policymakers to prioritize trains over flights when it comes to connectivity within Europe. By doing so, we can promote sustainable travel practices and reduce carbon emissions at the same time.
Greenpeace’s study highlights the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports efficient transportation within Europe. By creating more direct train connections between major cities, we can improve connectivity while also reducing our reliance on planes and promoting more sustainable practices.
Overall, Greenpeace’s findings suggest that there is significant potential for improving connectivity within Europe through investment in infrastructure and a shift towards more sustainable modes of transportation.
