In recent years, personal carbon footprints have been mentioned as a tool to combat climate change. So far, the focus has been primarily on motivating individuals through various appeals, campaigns, or statistics. However, personal carbon passports have also emerged, based on what people would have as an annual travel quota. This study examines the feasibility of such a program and its potential impacts on personal freedom. Introducing such a register would lead to serious negative consequences for individual and societal liberties.

• The discussion about carbon passports is beginning to appear in debates concerning the role of the individual in producing CO2 emissions.
• The introduction of carbon passports can theoretically be envisioned politically and legally and can be technically produced, but practical implementation would be much more complicated. However, if political means were found, such a system could be conceivable at the EU level.
• The concept of carbon passports would restrict personal freedoms and continuously monitor citizens’ daily activities. Less invasive and discriminatory ways must be found to address greenhouse gas emissions and support a sustainable lifestyle.

Analysis – Jan Rovenský, July 2024

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