In this third part of the 2024 Annual Review, the Climate Change Advisory Council outlines detailed observations and recommendations for the Transport sector – the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Ireland. Reliance on fossil fuels needs to end for the sector to reduce its emissions in line with climate objectives. Recent data indicate a slight increase in emissions in 2023a and, even with full implementation of proposed policies and measures, the sector is projected to exceed its sectoral emissions ceiling.
Demand for petrol, diesel and jet kerosene all increased in 2023, and the total number of vehicles continues to grow, with sales still dominated by petrol and diesel models and larger vehicles. Sales of battery electric vehicles showed promising growth in 2023, accounting for almost a fifth of the new vehicle market; however, early indications in 2024 point to a reversal of this trend.
The increase in emissions in 2023 was somewhat limited by a significant increase in public transport use (up 24% on 2022 levels), supported by a considerable expansion in rural bus services and continuing 20% reductions in fares.
