Abstract
Present and future environmental pollution caused by (motorized) road traffic is described. Road traffic air pollution is the largest source of NOx- and HC- emissions, which compounds play a significant role in acidification and photochemical oxidation. Environmental policy primarily focuses on setting technical vehicle standards to reduce "at source". Modal split surveys reveal a vast potential for bicycle use among non- essential car users. Substitution car use by public transport and the bicycle is part of today's environmental policy in the Netherlands.