The momentum behind implementing sustainable mobility practices and policies is rapidly increasing as global challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and social equity demand urgent attention.
In the essay "Accelerating Change: The Journey towards Sustainable Mobility", author Jakki Mann, content curator for the use platform and manager of the Circles of Sustainability initiative, outlines the key drivers of sustainable mobility, lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the importance of collaboration in realising a greener, more resilient, and a just future for all.
From Rio to resilience
While it is difficult to pinpoint an exact date when the term "sustainable mobility" first came into being, the concept can be traced back to the late 20th century. The 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, which led to the adoption of Agenda 21, was a significant milestone in the global shift toward sustainable development. In the following years, the term "sustainable mobility" emerged through academic literature, policy documents, and public discourse to describe transportation systems that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
In alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), sustainable mobility has emerged as critical to modern urban development, addressing global concerns such as environmental degradation, climate change, and social equity. As cities around the world continue to expand and populations become increasingly interconnected, the need for sustainable transportation systems that contribute to achieving the SDGs, particularly those related to affordable and clean energy, sustainable cities and communities, and climate action, has become paramount.
© Mauro Mora / unsplash
Unravelling the complexities of sustainable mobility: challenges and opportunities.
Addressing the diverse economic, social, and environmental challenges related to transportation is at the core of sustainable mobility. By collectively emphasising the importance of transitioning towards sustainable mobility, these drivers underscore the necessity of tackling the intricate issues that arise within contemporary transportation systems:
- Environmental concerns: The transportation sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and noise pollution. Sustainable mobility aims to reduce these negative impacts by promoting low-emission, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
- Climate change mitigation: As global temperatures rise due to human-induced climate change, there is an urgent need to reduce carbon emissions from transportation. Sustainable mobility solutions can help mitigate climate change by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and encouraging the use of renewable energy sources.
- Urbanisation: Rapid urbanisation has led to increased congestion, longer commute times, and deteriorating air quality in many cities. Sustainable mobility seeks to address these challenges by promoting efficient, accessible, and clean transportation systems.
- Social equity: Inclusive transportation systems that cater to the diverse needs of all citizens, including vulnerable populations such as the elderly, women and children, people with disabilities and low-income groups, are essential for fostering social equity. Sustainable mobility promotes accessible and affordable transportation options to ensure that everyone can participate in society fully and equally.
- Economic development: Efficient and sustainable transportation systems can boost economic development by facilitating trade, reducing travel time, and increasing productivity. Investing in sustainable mobility can create jobs and stimulate innovation in the transportation sector.
- Public health: By reducing air pollution, noise pollution, and promoting active transportation modes such as walking and cycling, sustainable mobility can improve public health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs associated with pollution-related illnesses and sedentary lifestyles.
- Technological advancements: Innovations in transportation technology, such as electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and smart city infrastructure, are driving the push towards sustainable mobility. These technologies can help optimize transportation systems, reduce emissions, and improve overall efficiency.
- Policy and regulatory frameworks: Governments and policymakers play a crucial role in promoting sustainable mobility by implementing policies, regulations, and incentives that encourage the adoption of sustainable transportation options and discourage unsustainable practices.
© Markus Spiske / unsplash
Navigating the Impact of COVID-19 on sustainable mobility
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on transportation systems worldwide, leading to a re-evaluation of sustainable mobility strategies. As lockdowns and social distancing measures were implemented, public transit ridership plummeted, and private car use declined. This reduction in traffic temporarily improved air quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of active transportation modes such as walking and cycling, prompting cities to invest in more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly infrastructure. However, the economic downturn and reduced public transit use have also put financial strains on public transportation agencies, potentially hindering long-term sustainability efforts. As the world recovers from the pandemic, the challenge is to build upon the positive changes in transportation behaviour and apply the lessons learned to foster more sustainable mobility solutions in a post-COVID world.
© Liam Burnett Blue / unsplash
By collaborating we can create a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for all
Knowledge exchange between cities and citymakers plays a vital role in promoting sustainable mobility and deploying effective transportation solutions. By sharing best practices, lessons learned, and successful implementation strategies, cities can collectively benefit from each other's experiences and accelerate the transition to more sustainable, resilient, and equitable transportation systems. This collaborative approach enables cities to adapt and adopt proven strategies, while also fostering a global network of urban centres committed to enhancing sustainable mobility for the betterment of all citizens.
For more programmes and policies related to sustainable mobility search the use data base by topic – mobility and transport.
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Further reading and watching:
Our Common Future (World Commission on Environment and Development)
Sustainable Mobility and Smart Connectivity (UNECE & UN)
COVID-19 and Sustainable Mobility (TUMI)
Taking Sustainable Urban Mobility To The Next Level (UNHabitat)
Developing Sustainable Metropolitan Mobility (Metropolis & UITP)
Five approaches to Sustainable Mobility (use platform)