In 2011 we were proud to deliver the modelling analysis for the preparation of the White Paper and the various policy initiatives that came after. 10 years later we revisit that work by carrying out the modelling for the evaluation of the White Paper, the objectives and goals it set, the outcomes achieved and the overall impact it had on EU transport and mobility!

Back in 2011, the White Paper defined the vision for a competitive and sustainable European transport system, aiming at a 60% lower transport-related GHG emissions by 2050 relative to 1990 levels, drastic reduction of oil dependency and less congestion. Enhanced accessibility, equity, and quality in the provision of transport services were also among the objectives of the White Paper.

The evaluation reveals that for the most part the White Paper helped set the scene for the future of the European transport system. The headline goals still act as adequate benchmarks for achieving an integrated, sustainable, and efficient transport system and EU policy action is still required to achieve further progress.

Key shortcomings relate to the limited progress towards meeting the GHG emission reduction target, since transport-related GHG emissions have been on the rise and in 2018 CO2 emissions were 32% above 1990 levels in the EU27. Moreover, oil dependency persists, and congestion has not been sufficiently tackled.

For the role of external trends in reaching the White Paper objectives, such as those related with digitalisation and new business models, new mobility patterns or climate change, the evaluation study concludes that it is too early for any of these to have played a significant role.

You may access the evaluation study and executive summary here: https://ec.europa.eu/transport/facts-fundings/evaluations/reports-year_en