Foreword
I commend the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe for initiating and producing this paper in cooperation with the United Nations Regional Commissions with support from the International Road Transport Union and the International Union of Railways. This publication comes at a critical moment for the international community as leaders adopt the 2030 Agenda, our vision for sustainable development and a life of dignity for all. The growing transport sector is an essential component of economic and social development, linking markets and facilitating trade. Transport is an important source of revenue and major employer. Success in achieving many of the Sustainable Development Goals will require affordable, efficient and environmentally sound transport systems. At the same time, the transport sector consumes significant energy resources, generating air and noise pollution as well as greenhouse gas emissions. We need more political commitment to foster a low-carbon transport future. We also need action to reduce road crashes and other traffic accidents. This study demonstrates that there are solutions. Our challenge is to share lessons and take action. We must generate more innovations to meet demands for mobility and transport while reducing their negative impacts. I recommend this publication to officials in government, industry and academia as well as others interested in how to optimize transport to build a better future for all.
15 September 2015
Ban Ki-moon Secretary-General of the United Nations
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