Transport in Europe's major cities is a leading source of pollution, affecting the quality of life for residents.

In its latest annual Transport and Environment Reporting Mechanism (TERM), the European Environment Agency (EEA) argues that a shift in travel options is needed to counter these adverse effects.

Its TERM, which surveyed 75 cities, found road transport was one of major sources of emissions, with a high proportion exposed to levels above standards from the European Union (EU) and World Health Organization.

Emissions from transport in the EU fell by 0.6 per cent between 2010 and 2011, but more is needed to meet 2050's target of a 60 per cent reduction on 1990 levels. Currently, pollutants are 25 per cent above this.

The authority suggests following the example of leading cities, through encouraging public transport and cycling, while restricting access of cars.

EEA's executive director Hans Bruyninckx said: "Many cities are applying innovative ideas which will make the car-based transport system seem like an idea belonging to the last century. City life does not have to mean polluted air, congestion, noise and long travelling times."

Commute times were also said to impact quality of life, such as in London and Budapest with journey times exceeding an hour.