The bar chart illustrates the carbon dioxide emissions produced by six different transport modes in the European Union, while the pie chart depicts the distribution of EU funding across various transport sectors.
Overall, it is evident that air travel is significantly more polluting than other forms of transport. Conversely, roads and railways dominate the allocation of EU funds, receiving the vast majority of financial support.
Regarding emissions, air travel is the most carbon-intensive mode, producing 380 grams of CO2 per passenger-km, which is nearly triple the emissions of passenger cars at 130 grams. Buses emit 70 grams, while maritime and rail transport both produce 50 grams. Coaches are the most environmentally friendly option, generating the lowest figure at 40 grams per passenger-km.
In terms of funding, roads account for the largest proportion of expenditure at 52%, followed by railways at 31%. Public transport receives 10% of the total budget. The remaining sectors, including ports, airports, intermodal transport, inland waterways, and unknown categories, receive minimal funding, ranging from 1% to 2% each. There is a clear disparity between the high environmental cost of air travel and the relatively low funding allocated to it.