Baku:Azerbaijan has announced its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector by 40% by 2035 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. The country's Long-Term Low-Carbon Development Strategy outlines several key initiatives, such as shifting freight transport from roads to railways, expanding public transportation, increasing the number of electric vehicles, and introducing alternative fuels.

According to Trend News Agency, the transportation sector is a significant contributor to Azerbaijan's economy, accounting for approximately 6% of GDP. However, it is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing 13% of the country's total emissions in 2022, equivalent to 9.3 million metric tons of CO2. Road transport alone accounted for 92% of these emissions.

The strategy emphasizes reducing distances traveled by motor vehicles, improving vehicle energy efficiency, and transitioning to cleaner fuel sources. A primary focus is on shifting freight transport from road to rail, with plans to expand and increase the capacity of the rail network by 2035 and continue shifting freight to rail by 2060.

Public transportation is also set for modernization and expansion, aiming to reduce the reliance on private cars. Electrification of the transportation sector is highlighted as a key mechanism for decarbonization, with specific targets set for increasing the share of electric vehicles and infrastructure investment by 2035 and achieving broader electrification goals by 2060.

The strategy also addresses the transition to alternative fuels in aviation and maritime transport. It plans for the use of biofuels and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in aviation and methanol in maritime transport, aiming for full implementation by 2060.

Overall, Azerbaijan's roadmap seeks to introduce new technologies, upgrade infrastructure, and increase investment to achieve net-zero emissions in the transport sector by 2060.