Review article
https://doi.org/10.25234/para/45392
LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND THE ROLE OF RAIL TRANSPORT IN REDUCING POLLUTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Ksenija Labudović
; student, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Law Osijek
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* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Transport is one of the largest sources of environmental pollution, this applies especially to road and air traffic, which contribute significantly to climate change, air quality degradation and health problems of the population. It is also important to note that these modes of transport cause noise pollution, affecting more than 100 million inhabitants of the European Union. Rail transport is cited as a more sustainable alternative to these modes due to its energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Some European countries, such as Switzerland and Germany, have recognized the importance of developing rail transport and have built modern and efficient rail systems through investments and appropriate regulatory measures. Germany in particular stands out for using electricity from environmentally friendly sources for its railway infrastructure. Accordingly, this paper analyzes the international, European and national legal framework that encourages the development of sustainable transport. At the international level, the Paris Agreement plays a key role, while at the European Union level, it is important to highlight the European Green Deal and the European Climate Law. Among the important European initiatives, RepowerEU and Shift2Rail stand out. In the context of sustainable transport development in the Republic of Croatia, it is important to mention the Transport Development Strategy of the Republic of Croatia for the period 2017-2030, whereas the Railway Act does not contain any specific provisions on environmental protection. Although it has numerous advantages, rail transport faces challenges such as insufficient digitalization, labor shortages, the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and congestion at transport hubs. Successfully addressing these challenges is crucial for further development of railways as a sustainable form of transport.
Keywords
rail transport; sustainable transport; road transport; air transport; European Union
Hrčak ID:
352108
URI
Publication date:
2.10.2026.
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