As a necessary element of most economic activities, transportation has always been crucial to inclusive growth and poverty eradication. And as markets expand and cities and countries develop more rapidly than ever before, setting things right in the sector is an integral part of solving the climate problem.
Today, the transport sector represents 23 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions — second only to the energy sector. Moreover, Asia’s speedy growth — which has spurred a rise in both incomes and vehicle ownership — puts it at the center of the climate conundrum, with the continent’s vehicle fleet and emissions expected to double by 2024.
Climate change mitigation efforts have traditionally been more focused on energy and power generation — from conservation and efficiency to switching from fossil fuels to low-carbon, renewable sources. And while clean energy is undeniably a huge component of climate change mitigation — and one that benefits the transport sector as well — will the world’s leaders strive to make the same progress for clean transportation?
About the author
Liana Barcia
Liana is a former Manila-based reporter at Devex focusing on education, development finance, and public-private partnerships.
