Public transport’s role in climate change

I’ve been working in sustainable development my entire career. I’ve witnessed first-hand how vital it is to address the most important issues facing the world in which we live – a great many of which concern our planet.

We hear more and more people discussing climate change and, more importantly, climate action. It’s welcome news to see more and more politicians, decision makers, news reports, interested young people and others across society debating the future of our planet. What is concerning is the time it has taken to bring the seriousness of climate change to the forefront.

The planet is facing a climate emergency, and when facing a crisis for our environment – one that will impact future generations – we must all step up and act.

Throughout my career, having held positions within the British government, Transport for London and now UITP, I’ve known for a long time that public transport can play a vital role in addressing climate change.

By first fighting air pollution at the local level, in the streets and in cities more and more people are calling home, we can bring about lasting change. This is not, however, a new way of thinking. Experts at UITP, and other collaborators within the urban mobility sector, have known this for a long time – global leaders and decision makers also know this. So, alongside our international membership, UITP has taken on the mantle of bringing about lasting change.