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🗞️ Driving the news: Austria will offer its KlimaTicket for free for one year to all 18-year-olds starting July 1
• Eligible youths can start their year-long pass between their 18th and 21st birthdays. The initiative aims to encourage lifelong use of public transport

🔭 The context: Europe has seen various initiatives to make public transport more affordable, amid concerns about carbon emissions and the rising cost of living
• While free or low-cost tickets are popular, their effectiveness varies due to issues like overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Promoting public transport reduces reliance on cars and planes, cutting carbon emissions
• However, the impact is limited if the infrastructure does not support increased usage effectively

⏭️ What's next: Austria's scheme will test if free transport can significantly boost long-term public transit use among young people
• Improvements in infrastructure and service quality will be crucial for the success of such initiatives

💬 One quote: "We want to get even more young people excited about public transport in the long term," said Austria's climate minister Leonore Gewessler

📈 One stat: Around 88,000 people will be eligible each year for Austria's free KlimaTicket.

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