UN Calls For Bold, Innovative Steps In Re-Thinking Transport Systems

From Zarul Effendi Razali ASHGABAT (Turkmenistan), Nov 28 (Bernama) -- The United Nations (UN) has called for bold and innovative steps in re-thinking transport systems, from design to technology and comsumption patterns. Its Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said as transport has significant public health impact, governments need more systems that are environmentally friendly, affordable and accessible, which can be achieved through technological advances. "We have to make all transport systems safe and secure to reach the ambitious target set in the 2030 Agenda calling for access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all. "We need to address the environmental impacts of transport (industry) in order to mitigate the impact on climate change and reduce local air pollution," he said in his remarks at the opening session of the first UN Global Sustainable Transport Conference here on Saturday. The two-day conference marks an important step in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the achievement of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Ban also reiterated the importance of achieving sustainable transport that can drive inclusive growth, create jobs, reduce poverty, open markets, empower women and help secure the well-being of other vulnerable groups. "We need a broad view that resolves interlocking problems of transport with an integrated policy framework. This has to align with the Sustainable Development Goals and should take account of the interactions between different modes of transport. "We must address the needs of vulnerable countries, including least developed countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing states," he said, adding that these countries need simplified border crossings and harmonised regional regulations and requirements. Ban also addressed the needs of financing in developing the transport system, mobilising funds from a variety of sources and fostering North-South, South-South and triangular cooperation. In achieving this, he said, public-private partnerships are indispensible. "We have to mobilise all partners by putting people at the centre of transport planning -- and by working together. Transport is team work. "With broad coalition of the governments, international organisations, business, civil society and communities, we can make sustainable transport a reality," he added. The transport sector currently accounts for about one quarter of all greenhouse emissions annually, while 1.25 million people die in road traffic accidents, with 90 per cent of those people killed in developing countries. Organised by the government of Turkmenistan, the two-day conference beginning on Saturday gathers key government stakeholders from more than 80 countries, including Heads of States, Heads and Deputy Heads of governments, ministers of UN member countries, and representatives from the UN systems and other international organisations. -- BERNAMA