The impact of our mobility
In 2019, transport accounted for more than 31% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in France. It is also the main consumer of fossil fuels, accounting for more than 91% of national consumption. The sector is a major public health issue, responsible for most air pollution (NOx, fine particles) and noise pollution. In addition, transport infrastructure often encroaches on natural environments and agricultural land, threatening biodiversity and food resilience.
We all have an interest in reducing our carbon footprint, especially since regulatory targets require us to do so. Université de Lorraine must reduce its fuel consumption by 10% by 2027 (compared to 2022) and reduce air travel by 30% (compared to 2019).
At the university level, sustainable mobility is a key issue. Commuting between home and campus accounts for nearly half of the GHG footprint, while business travel by the 7,000 staff members accounts for approximately 10% of the carbon footprint of purchases, largely due to air and car travel.
The 2021-2022 mobility survey highlighted varying practices depending on location. For example, 60% of students at the Nancy Arts and Humanities Campus walk to university, compared to only 9% at the Metz Technopôle. These differences can be explained by location and accommodation options. Université de Lorraine is therefore adapting its soft mobility initiatives to local specificities, in collaboration with campus stakeholders.
Geographical mobility of the academic community
Breakdown of carbon emissions related to travel
Total CO2 emissions linked to daily commutes between home and campus amount to over 40,000 tonnes per year. It is worth noting that 85% of these 40,000 tonnes are linked to car travel (excluding car-sharing)!
Podium of transport modes
Car use remains the most popular form of transport compared to other modes. However, we note that active modes (cycling, walking, scooters, etc.) still account for a significant share!
Université de Lorraine is committed to promoting green mobility
As we pointed out above, mobility accounts for a significant proportion of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As part of its ecological transition policy, Université de Lorraine has a role to play in supporting changes in practices by encouraging sustainable mobility, particularly active modes of transport such as walking and cycling.
To structure its mobility policy, a mobility project manager was recruited in early 2024. Her role is to support the university community, including both students and staff. You can contact her.
In addition, in order to obtain more accurate data on travel and to better guide future sustainable mobility actions, a new mobility survey was conducted in early 2025 by the university.