UN Chief Calls for Urgent Shift to Sustainable Transport on World Transport Day

ADDIS ABABA – On the inaugural World Sustainable Transport Day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the critical need for a transformative shift towards more sustainable transport systems. His message, delivered in connection with the Day, underscored the sector’s significant impact on global climate change and the necessity of cleaner energy solutions.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the General Assembly declared November 26 as World Transport Day, recognizing the crucial role of safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport in fostering sustainable economic growth and other essential areas. Guterres described transportation as the world’s circulatory system, essential for moving people and goods, creating jobs, and sustaining prosperity.

However, the Secretary-General also pointed out the dark side of the current transport systems. He highlighted that transportation significantly contributes to climate change, with the sector accountable for roughly a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, 91 percent of the energy used in motorized transport – whether by land, sea, or air – still comes from fossil fuels.

Despite these daunting statistics, Guterres expressed confidence in humanity’s ability to overcome the reliance on fossil fuels. He emphasized the urgent need for collective action to shift towards sustainable alternatives and outlined his vision for a transportation future that is resilient, efficient, and low in carbon emissions.

The Secretary-General’s vision includes a range of sustainable solutions, such as electric and solar-powered vehicles, renewable aviation fuel sources, significant investments in green public transportation systems, and the implementation of carbon pricing and subsidies for low-carbon fuels.

With a sense of urgency, Guterres called for immediate action, saying, “There is no time to waste. Let’s get moving.” This call for sustainable transportation, alongside innovative policies and technologies, will be a key focus at the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference, COP28, starting in Dubai on November 30.