Replacing the current fossil-fuelled road transport fleet with low-emission vehicles – powered by electrification, hydrogen, biofuels, and e-fuels – is a key strategy for decarbonising transport. But the impact of these low-emission vehicles on climate change mitigation and sustainable development hinges on their integration with other parts of the system. To be truly effective, these vehicles must be fit-for-purpose, both resource- and energy-efficient. This highlights the potential of electric micro-mobility options, such as two- and three-wheelers, and a diverse range of four-wheelers, including two-seaters, small vans, trucks, and light electric freight vehicles.

Although low-emission vehicles are a crucial aspect of decarbonising the land transport sector, they are not a sufficient solution. A wider agenda is needed that goes beyond electric cars to address electric two- and three-wheelers, public transport, and freight (particularly in low- and middle-income countries) – and that is aligned with the energy transition towards renewables.

In this podcast, our speakers will share their insights on how SOLUTIONSplus has created a global platform for shared, public, and commercial e-mobility solutions, setting the stage for a transition towards low-carbon urban mobility. We will hear their hands-on stories on how to integrate different types of e-mobility in large urban areas and address user needs and local conditions.

Accelerating the transformation of freight transport and logistics is among the most impactful steps the global community can take to enable overall positive socio-economic transformations by mid-century. Achieving low-carbon transport pathways that limit global warming to 1.5°C will require a 59% reduction in transport-related CO2 emissions by 2050, compared to 2020 levels, and freight transport and logistics play an indispensable role in this ambitious pathway.

However, as the laggard among sectors, the transport sector had the highest increase in global emissions with 18% growth from 2010 to 2019. Freight transport emissions comprise a rising share accounting for 42% of global transport CO2 emissions in 2019. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, energy supply pressures, inflation, increased volatility of shipping costs and extreme climate events are revealing the increased vulnerability of freight systems and their workforces and how this impacts on food security and on the capacities for emergency response and economic recovery of countries.

While the demand for transporting goods is forecasted to double between 2019 and 2050, over the next decades, changes in populations, climate, behaviour, energy sources, workforces, production and consumption location, and technology will have dramatic impacts on freight transport and logistics. Frequent extreme weather events and rising sea levels also inflict huge financial losses through direct damage to freight transport assets and, to a greater extent, through freight transport disruptions, as USD 107 billion were lost annually to businesses in LMICs.

In light of these pressing challenges, SLOCAT and Kühne Foundation, together with CONCITO, IDDRI, International Transport Workers’ Federation, Smart Freight Centre, UIC International Union of Railways and World Resources Institute have co-initiated a manifesto for intermodal, low-carbon, efficient and resilient freight transport and logistics. The manifesto was launched at the first United Nations Global Supply Chain Forum organised by United Nations Trade and Development and the Government of Barbados from 21– 24 May 2024.

In this podcast, our speakers come together for an insightful conversation to explore what it takes to accelerate the transformation of freight transport and logistics. Learn how we can help our economies and societies tackle climate change while staying competitive, equitable, and resilient.

Asia and Africa face critical mobility challenges that impact economic growth, environmental sustainability, and public health. Asia experiences rapid urbanisation and motorisation, resulting in significant traffic congestion and negative externalities such as economic losses, increased fossil fuel consumption, deteriorating air quality, and road fatalities. The motorisation rate in developed Asian countries ranges from 417 to 819 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants, while in developing countries, it ranges from 22 to 38 vehicles per 1,000 inhabitants. Traffic congestion imposes an economic cost of 2 to 5% of GDP annually, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable transport solutions and improved urban planning.

Meanwhile in Africa, rapid urbanisation and low motorisation rates, with only 43 vehicles per 1,000 people compared to the global average of 197 vehicles per 1,000 people, lead to a heavy reliance on walking, cycling, and informal transport, especially among low-income households. However, even these modes face significant challenges, as 95% of Africa's roads fail to provide an acceptable level of service for pedestrians, and 93% fail for cyclists. Limited access to formal and informal public transport is also a concern, with only 31.7% of the population able to access public transport within a reasonable walking distance. Both regions also grapple with road safety challenges, with vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists accounting for a substantial portion of road traffic fatalities.

An estimated 20-30% of all trips globally are made on foot, while a significant 85% of all trips involve walking. Walking and cycling represent the most sustainable forms of transportation. Encouraging more people to walk and cycle safely can significantly contribute to achieving climate goals. It provides a swift, cost-effective, and reliable means to reduce transport emissions, improve public health, boost the economy, and foster a more just and equitable society. Furthermore, walking and cycling serve as feeder modes for accessing other sustainable transportation options, such as public transit.

Commuting between work and home accounts for a substantial portion of cycling trips, surpassing other purposes. In urban areas, cycling to work is on average 40% more prevalent than cycling for non-work-related trips. This figure escalates to approximately 60% in larger cities. However, a notable gender disparity in cycling exists worldwide, with women and girls cycling significantly less than men. Various factors contribute to this gap, including limited access to bicycles, cultural or religious considerations, and insufficient safe cycling infrastructure and knowledge.

The primary obstacles to cycling include the absence of segregated lanes, inadequate safe infrastructure, concerns about physical fitness, and negative perceptions of cyclists. Investing in infrastructure that promotes walkability and bikeability is crucial for promoting active travel and enhancing public health.

In this podcast, we will explore Zambia's experiences in promoting walking and cycling initiatives and the lessons learned from their endeavours.