Carbon dioxide emissions from passenger transport in China since 1949: Implications for developing sustainable transport

► CO2 emissions from passenger transport in China were estimated. ► Road transport was the largest contributor to CO2 emission. Air transport followed. ► Factors influencing CO2 emissions growth are analyzed by decomposition analysis. ► Income growth, higher travel intensity and modal shift were driving CO2 emissions up. ► Policies to promote modal shifts and travel demand reduction should be encouraged.