The idea of eliminating flights within Europe by 2030 is a bold proposal, but it's a critical step in reducing the continent's carbon footprint. The physics behind flying demonstrate that it's one of the most carbon-intensive modes of transportation. What specific measures should Europe take to build out its public transportation infrastructure to make it more efficient and appealing to travelers?
Ideally this ban would lead to train infrastructure being developed and improved, which long-term would reduce greenhouse gas emission. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), air passenger transport emits, on average, 160 gCO2 per pkm, whereas rail passenger transport is only 33 gCO2 per pkm (well-to-wheel, excluding infrastructure-related emissions)
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