Toward carbon-neutral road transportation in the GCC countries: an analysis of energy consumption and CO2 emissions

Purpose Reducing CO2 emissions from transportation is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries by 2060 or earlier. This study aimed at analyzing transportation-related energy consumption and CO2 emissions, along with their determinants and mitigation measures planned to achieve carbon neutrality in GCC countries. Design/methodology/approach To achieve the study objectives, the pressure-state-response (PSR) framework was utilized. Various methods were employed within the PSR framework, including econometric analysis using EViews, energy modeling using the low emissions analysis platform (LEAP) and content analysis of relevant policy and national documents using NVivo. Findings The results indicated that population and economic growth, along with increased fuel consumption, have led to a growth in transportation-related energy use and CO2 emissions in the GCC countries. Per capita transportation-related CO2 emissions in the GCC countries are higher than those of several countries. To achieve carbon-neutral transportation, approximately 1.8 bn metric tons of CO2 emissions need to be avoided by 2060 or earlier. Strategies related to fuel alternatives, vehicle technologies and mass transit have been planned to reduce transportation-related CO2 emissions in the GCC countries. Originality/value This study employed a holistic approach to analyze transportation-related energy use and CO2 emissions in the GCC countries. It provides several policy implications and highlights the urgent need for policy innovations to achieve transformative change in the transportation sectors of the GCC countries.