Transport emissions in Salzburg rise 50 percent since 1990

Transport was responsible for 39 percent of Salzburg’s greenhouse gas emissions in 2024, after emissions from the sector rose by half since 1990, ORF reports. It remains the state’s largest source of greenhouse gases.

Transport emissions reached about 1.23 million tonnes in 2024, an increase of 404,000 tonnes compared with 1990. The figures come from an analysis by the Verkehrsclub Österreich (VCÖ), based on data from the Environment Agency Austria.

Emissions have fallen in other sectors. The largest reduction was in buildings, where they dropped by 57 percent, or 409,000 tonnes. Industry emissions fell by about 222,000 tonnes.

Compared with 2019, transport emissions in Salzburg have also declined, falling by about 311,000 tonnes, or 20 percent. At 2,150 kilograms of transport-related CO2 emissions per resident each year, Salzburg ranks fourth-lowest among Austria’s states. The calculation is based on the amount of fuel sold in each state, meaning lorry transit also weighs on Salzburg’s climate figures, according to the VCÖ.

The VCÖ is calling for more investment in public transport and cycling infrastructure. It says traffic-calming measures and more 30 km/h zones in towns and cities could encourage people to walk or cycle.

Electric cars are also expected to help reduce transport emissions. In September 2026, they made up 33 percent of newly registered cars in Salzburg. About 23,000 electric cars with Salzburg registration plates were on the road at the end of that month.