Transport that is environmentally responsible, inclusive, efficient and economically sustainable will be central to implementing the commitments made at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) in Paris in December 2015 and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Recognition of transport’s leading role comes with the duty to make the sector greener and more inclusive. Our challenge is to ensure affordable access for all and provide services for the trade and mobility on which our economies and wellbeing depend, while reducing impacts on the environment and public health.
Demand for transport is growing rapidly, with particularly strong growth coming from trade-driven freight transport and rapid or persistent motorisation in urban areas. Most of this growth is CO2 intensive. The Paris Agreement on Climate Change opens a new era of initiative to secure a low- carbon future for transport. This will be essential to address the growing share of transport in global energy-related CO2 emissions.
A combination of advances in renewable power generation and propulsion technology, managing demand along with changes in behaviour, as well as novel approaches to rationalising mobility and land use, will be necessary to address these challenges. At the same time, exogenous factors such as changing demographics, rapid urbanisation, new trade patterns and digital connectivity need to be factored in.
Our ability to respond to these challenges and opportunities will determine the effectiveness of the shift to green and inclusive transport.
We, the Ministers responsible for transport in the member countries of the International Transport Forum, have assembled under the Presidency of Denmark to seek mutual understanding of, and orient our response to, these challenges.
actively support the ITF’s analytical work to help countries reduce transport-related carbon emissions and improve fuel efficiency, while enhancing transport safety and security.
support and facilitate, wherever possible, the harnessing of new technology to make transport services and infrastructure accessible for all, from journey planning, to information provision and on-board facilities.
support efforts to agree a sustainable aviation framework according to the decisions of the International Civil Aviation Organization.
recognise that promoting quality transport infrastructure planning, maintenance and development contributes to transport sector resilience, mitigation of climate change impacts, as well as economic growth and social inclusiveness.
acknowledge that regulatory frameworks may need to be adjusted to accommodate this new economic dynamic, while protecting personal data, public health, the environment, and ensuring other economic and social benefits.