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Home > Databases > Library > Advancing Sustainable Development: The role of public transport

Advancing Sustainable Development: The role of public transport

December 2018
Source: 
ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability

Transport is one of the major sources of carbon emissions in cities. Overall, the transport sector produces around 23 percent of global energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The figure is projected to increase by 50 percent by 2035 and almost double by 2050 under a business-as-usual scenario. 

This report features how Münster, Germany, is developing a people-centered transport system, with efforts to improve accessibility, connectivity, inclusivity, and sustainability. The city has already taken steps to improve its cycling network and enhance public transportation services, and it is now implementing its third Urban Transportation Plan (called “Nahverkehrsplan”, NVP), launched in 2016, which aims to:

  • Reduce the level of fine particulate matter and NO2 emissions in the vicinity of residential buildings in the urban area through the air quality plan. 
  • Provide equitable access to public transport by ensuring the participation of people with reduced mobility.
  • Consider gender issues as public transport is more often used by women than by men. 
  • Promote electrification of city buses.
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Countries: 
Germany
Sectors: 
Transport
Themes: 
Cities, Climate Change
Key search terms: 
cities, emission reduction, public transport, sustainable development, mobility, electric mobility

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