Work

Is high-speed rail a sustainable mobility option? A life-cycle assessment of the Basque Y project in Spain

Year: 2023

Type: article

Abstract: The Basque Y High Speed Rail connection between Madrid and the Basque Autonomous Community is, quite exceptionally, a mixed freight and passengers HSR line, that has been presented as a fundamental step towards a more sustainable mobility. In this paper, a life-cycle assessment (LCA) is conducted to assess the environmental performance of the line throughout its lifetime, based on the latest data available, including both construction and maintenance burdens. Results show that this new corridor is not justified in terms of reducing emissions and energy consumption, mainly due to its low transport density. It also has a negligible impact on Spanish current low rail freight traffic. We conclude, therefore, that Spain needs to reconsider its AVE network expansion if aiming at increasing rail's modal share and meeting the emissions targets set by the EU. From a policy perspective, many information inconsistencies have been found regarding the demand projections of freight transport, which cast serious doubt about the decision-making process behind Trans-European transport projects.

Source: Environmental Impact Assessment Review

DOI: 10.1016/j.eiar.2023.107276

Authors: Andoni Kortazar, Gorka Bueno, David Hoyos

Institution: University of the Basque Country

Language: English

Topic: transportation and logistics systems

Subfield: Transportation

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities, Responsible consumption and production, Climate action

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,400