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Strategic Session 2.2 - Zero-emission Mobility, Health, and the Environment: Benefits and Future Challenges

Tracks
Strategic Sessions
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
4:15 PM - 5:30 PM
Hall 8D (Simmonscourt)

Details

This session underscores the critical role of zero-emission mobility in securing a healthier future for Europe, not only for the planet but for the well-being of its citizens. The harmful impacts of air and noise pollution caused by transport emissions, including premature deaths, respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health problems, are highlighted. The European Environment Agency identifies noise as a significant environmental health factor, impacting 20% of the EU population. Transport emissions, the sole sector with increasing greenhouse gas emissions, contribute to air quality problems, climate effects, biodiversity loss, and water pollution. A sustainable mobility future necessitates a safe, clean, environmentally friendly, efficient, quiet, and affordable transport system. The session emphasizes the importance of improving technologies, transitioning to eco-friendly transport modes, and optimizing or minimizing unnecessary trips. While aviation and waterborne transport aim for net-zero emissions, challenges persist, particularly in localized pollution near airports and ports. Road transport is moving toward zero-emission, but challenges related to non-exhaust particle emissions from brakes and tires remain. Rail transport, considered the greenest mode, also faces challenges related to particles and noise. The session advocates for intensified research and innovation activities across all transport modes to achieve the EU's policy goals of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and significant reductions in air pollutants. The discussion will explore the health impacts of transport and the benefits of a complete shift to zero-emission mobility for EU citizens, outlining key research and innovation challenges that need addressing to support positive developments and maintain Europe's leadership in mobility innovation, production, and services. Rapporteurs: Zissis Samaras, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Session Organisers: Guido Sacchetto, EC DG RTD; Zissis Samaras, ERTRAC


Speaker

Mr Sebastiaan Bleuanus
Project Coordinator
Wartsila Netherlands

Speaker

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Andrea Gentili
European Commission

Moderator

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Mr. Eugene Kors
Safran Aircraft Engines

Speaker

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Dr. Micheal Lehane
Environmental Protection Agency

Speaker

Mr. Roberto Vavassori
Brembo SpA

Speaker


Engagement

Session Engagement

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