Road traffic collisions remain a major cause of death and serious injury. Around 1.35 million people are killed on the world's roads each year. More than 90% of these deaths occur in low and middle-income countries.
Air pollution
Vehicles emit a variety of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide. These pollutants can contribute to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
Climate change
Vehicles powered by internal combustion engines emit greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. Climate change is already having a significant impact on human health and well-being, and is expected to worsen in the future.
Noise pollution
Traffic noise can be disruptive and harmful to human health. Noise can lead to sleep problems, hearing loss, and stress.
Congestion
Congestion is a major problem in many urban areas, and it can cause a variety of problems, including delays, stress, and increased fuel consumption.
Economic costs
The social and economic costs of car use are significant. These costs include the costs of road crashes, air pollution, climate change, noise pollution, and congestion.
Personal costs
Car use can also have significant personal costs. These costs include the costs of purchasing, maintaining, and insuring a vehicle, as well as the costs of fuel and parking.