Road transport is constantly developing. Initially, its organization focused on the economic aspect. Transport between the sender and the recipient was to be as fast and as cost-effective as possible. Currently, other requirements are also taken into account, especially those related to environmental protection.
Starting from changes in the natural environment related to the construction of road infrastructure, ending with emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, heavy metals and others that are produced when vehicles burn fuel.
The European Union is taking many actions to limit the adverse changes in the environment caused by the development of transport. It devotes a lot of time to developing tools to reduce the negative impact of transport on the environment. This is achieved, among others, by the so-called "White Papers", which contain multi-annual action plans, where, through a compromise between economics, ecology and the social aspect, the main goals and instruments for implementing the provisions of the treaty are indicated. An important element of the so-called Green Deal is the Fit for 55 package. It aims to reduce CO2 emissions by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality in 2050.
Electric vehicles and hydrogen as a fuel are being promoted. However, there is currently a lack of infrastructure, especially for hydrogen-powered vehicles. Despite the intensive development of technology and legislative support from the European Union, the costs of producing vehicles with such a drive limit its popularity. Autonomous vehicles should also be mentioned. They are already being introduced in Scandinavia, the USA, and China, but their market share is minimal.
The term Ecodriving has entered the transport language - meaning a driving style that allows you to cover a route with optimal fuel consumption, which generates a lower environmental footprint. Two basic tools are used for this purpose: driving technique and precise route planning. In terms of driving technique, it is maintaining engine speed in the right range and smooth driving. In terms of route planning, it is the use of TMS systems that optimize travel times, taking into account the number of shipments, customer location, road availability and time slots.
Road transport has a greater negative impact on the environment than rail or sea transport. However, it is the most accessible and flexible type of transport. It provides a fast delivery time, reaches practically any location and the rolling stock with a varied load capacity allows for economic use of cargo space.
The automotive industry is a huge consumer of energy dependent on fossil fuels. Actions to limit environmental degradation are essential. Environmental education and the use of new technologies will allow us not only to meet legal requirements but also reduce the carbon footprint of transport.
Urszula Jatczak
Environmental Protection Specialist
