Make low-carbon transport the default for public sector decision making

Governments should champion low- and zero-carbon transport and set an example for citizens and businesses. Investing in public transport, promoting walking and cycling, and providing good charging infrastructure are examples where public policy can make low-carbon transport the default and environmental sustainability the benchmark. Integrating transport planning with land-use policy and promoting urban densification will bring jobs, goods and services closer to people and reduce the need for commuting.

Public procurement provides another lever because governments operate large vehicle fleets. They should make the purchase of low- or zero-emission vehicles their default policy, which would send a strong political signal, not least to businesses that also have large fleets.

Awarding contracts should take into account the carbon footprint of the bids. For instance, in Sweden, the tender for a ferry between Stockholm and the island of Gotland included greenhouse gas emissions as a criterion. The winning bid uses Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), resulting in 20% lower CO2 emissions.

EXPLORE FURTHER

Video: 10 Facts about Transport and Climate Change, International Transport Forum (2019).

Toolkit: Transport Climate Action Directory, International Transport Forum (2021)

Report: ITF Transport Outlook 2021, International Transport Forum (2021)

Case study: Shared Mobility Simulations in Lyon, International Transport Forum (2021)