Greenpeace Study Found Widespread Transport Poverty
A new study revealed that 56% of Europeans lack regular access to public transportation systems.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Europe
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A Greenpeace report published on September 21, 2026, highlighted that 56% of Europeans lack regular access to public transportation. The findings also indicated that 19% of the population has no practical alternative to private vehicle ownership.
Why it matters
Limited transit options isolate individuals from essential services like healthcare and employment. This disconnect is exacerbated by safety concerns and physical accessibility issues, particularly for older people and women.
The study utilized 11 distinct indicators to measure transport poverty across the continent. Researchers noted that 22.4% of the Greek population faces forced car ownership, significantly higher than the 6.4% European average.
The players
Greenpeace
This international environmental non-governmental organization campaigns for sustainable living and climate action.
Oeko-Institut
This leading independent European research organization focuses on environmental policy and sustainability consulting.
The details
The Oeko-Institut conducted the study by analyzing transit disparities between urban and rural geographic regions. Results show 72% of Greeks use public transport less than once a month, while only 7% rely on it for daily commuting.
Timeline
September 21, 2026: Greenpeace published the transport poverty study.
Travel Outlook
The report highlights a systemic divergence in regional mobility that challenges the EU's goal of a unified transit network. By documenting the 11 indicators of transport poverty identified by the Oeko-Institut, the study underscores that seasonal tourism and local accessibility rely on infrastructure quality that currently remains inconsistent.
Travelers should verify public transit availability in their destination before booking, as many regions lack consistent daily service. Relying on local transit may prove difficult in countries like Greece, where car ownership is often a necessity rather than a choice.
The takeaway
Reliable public transit remains a significant hurdle for a majority of European residents, impacting their daily access to necessary services. Policymakers face pressure to address these geographic disparities to ensure equitable mobility for all citizens.
Further reading
Learn more about the mobility challenges facing the continent in the Europe section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Milletnews.
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