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Suburban Rails Are Booming, But Will Europe’s Climate Goals Derail Without Them?

Suburban Rails Are Booming, But Will Europe’s Climate Goals Derail Without Them?
photo: Rob Hodgkins / Flickr/Suburban train in Berlin, Germany
12 / 01 / 2025

With growing populations and urban congestion, European nations are investing heavily in expanding urban transit, particularly rail networks. Suburban rail lines are on the rise, with new routes under construction. But will this be enough to lure city dwellers out of their cars? The European Union is pulling out all the stops.

The Role of Suburban Rail: Why It Matters

Rail transport is becoming increasingly vital, especially in urban transit. Suburban rail usage is booming as cities invest in expanding and modernizing their networks. The EU's Green Deal, aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2050, has been a significant driver behind this shift, according to European Union. All EU member states are on board with this initiative, which seeks to improve environmental health and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Expanding rail systems offers a more sustainable mode of transport, a goal the EU is fully committed to supporting.

Rail transport also plays a critical role in freight, often being the most cost-effective mode of transport, as noted by Future Electronics.

Cars: The Biggest Obstacle to the Green Deal

Private car usage remains the primary hurdle for the Green Deal. Cars offer unmatched convenience and flexibility, eliminating the need to depend on train schedules or distant stations. Globally, around 45% of the population relies on private cars, compared to only 23% using public transport. However, rising car usage and population growth have led to increasing traffic jams, accidents, and greenhouse gas emissions. Road transport also accounts for the highest annual death toll among all modes of transport.

Why Rail is the Answer: Capacity and Comfort

Rail transit offers a clear solution to climate challenges and urban congestion. As the Journal of Urban Mobility points out, while cars currently win for their convenience, that’s beginning to change. European nations are prioritizing rail development, particularly suburban transit, to combat urban gridlock and pollution.

Expanding and modernizing suburban rail networks will make it easier for passengers to travel anywhere. Modern regional trains now offer significant comfort, attracting more commuters for both environmental and economic reasons. The capacity of suburban trains, a key advantage in urban transit, allows them to move large numbers of passengers at once. Increasing rail usage can reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. Train designs also consider the needs of elderly and disabled passengers, reserving dedicated spaces for them.

A Case Study in Suburban Rail Planning

In some cases, new rail routes even shape the future of urban landscapes. For example, Wiley Online Library reports that in Gdańsk, Poland, a new suburban rail line initially struggled with low ridership due to its route and poorly located stations. However, the city plans to build housing developments along the line, ensuring the railway eventually fulfills its intended purpose.

Source: futureelectronics.com; onlinelibrary.wiley.com; rail4cities.eu

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