Decarbonisation of Transport – A Challenge for Inland Navigation

Purpose: The purpose of the article is to identify the directions of activities conducive to the development of low-carbon inland navigation in the EU with a particular focus on Poland. This goal is being pursued taking into account existing regulations at the EU and national levels. Design/Methodology/Approach: The article compares selected research results from the fields of inland navigation and low-carbon economy. A method of analysing found data, a comparative analysis using statistical data, and an analysis of the compatibility of regulations at the EU and national levels were used. Findings: Inland navigation in many countries is undervalued, forgotten and underutilized as an efficient, environmentally friendly means of transportation. The article outlines the formation of transportation policy, the original goal of which was to increase the efficiency of river transportation, stimulate the economy and have a positive impact on the labour market. As the EU's goals have evolved, priorities in the area of transport policy have also changed. There is a growing need to increase eco-efficiency, build intermodal transportation networks, connect systems, or modernize transportation infra- and infostructures. The possibility of integrating Poland's rivers into the TEN-T network is both a challenge and an opportunity for Poland to develop modern, zero-emission inland navigation. Practical Implications: Inland navigation has lost ground across Europe, but climate challenges call for a return to this mode of transportation as the most environmentally friendly. Therefore, it needs investments in both infra- and infostructure at the EU and member state levels. In addition, Poland should develop a long-term strategy for the development of Inland navigation, taking into account the goals of the green economy. Originality/Value: The research showed the need for more intensive activities and their coordination at the international, national level, but also the unification of multimodal transportation. The measures taken should lead to a more sustainable, efficient and competitive sector.