Multicriteria Sustainability Assessment of Transport Modes: A European Union Case Study for 2020

Abstract

The transport sector, pivotal in sustaining economic activity and regional development, stands as a double-edged sword, enhancing competitiveness and mobility while posing substantial challenges to environmental sustainability. It remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, characterized by inefficient infrastructure and scant emphasis on environmental stewardship. This trajectory not only undermines long-term viability but also exacerbates pollution levels, including greenhouse gases and air and noise pollutants, thus degrading environmental quality and posing health risks globally. Consequently, there is an imperative need for a paradigm shift towards sustainable transport practices. This study employs the Ranking Alternatives with Weights of Criterion (RAWEC) methodology to assess the sustainability of various transport modes within the European Union in 2020. Evaluation criteria included employment numbers, turnover, final energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and transport-related fatalities. Criterion weight coefficients were calculated using the Standard Deviation Method, Entropy, and FANMA methods. The findings underscore the necessity for strategic adjustments in transportation planning and policy to align with sustainability objectives.