Climate Change Mitigation Measures for the Transport Sector

A number of mitigation measures have been identified to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector.  These include research and development of new technologies, infrastructure upgrades, particularly of the public transport systems and behavioural changes. 

The promotion of public and non-motorised transport is pivotal to mitigating climate change in the transport sector, as a shift from private vehicles will mean fewer emissions per passenger.  In South Africa this requires the upgrade of public transport systems in order to meet the needs of the commuters as well as the development of cycling lanes and walk ways that are safe, well-maintained and suitable for the users.  The 2010 World Cup Soccer event happening in South Africa is being used as an opportunity to create a public transport legacy project for the country.  There is the development of a new rail systems for Gauteng, the Gautrain, as well as a number of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) projects proposed for cities around the country. 

Technological interventions such as the development of vehicles that are more fuel efficient or use cleaner fuels and the mainsteaming of "alternative" vehicle technologies, such as electric, hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cell needs to be investigated.  Yahoo! Autos Green Center  provides information on "green" cars available as well information on the different technologies available.  The total financial and environmental impacts of these options will need to be addressed before decisions are made around their feasibility.  The South African cabinet anounced on 1 June 2007 that they have approved a plan for research on hydrogen-based fuel cells for vehicles.  They have promised nearly R300 million in funding for research up to 2010. Visit our web resources page for more links to research and development activities around "green" vehicles.

Biofuels also play a role in climate change mitigation; although the energy consumption in the manufacturing process will need to be investigated before decisions are made about the net energy balance of this transport fuel.  The use of waste products, such as used cooking oil, should be encouraged before food products as used as a fuel source.  See our section on Biofuels for more information.