Mobility as an enabler to economic and social development

In the words of the WBCSD’s Sustainable Mobility Project 2004 overview mobility covers « the needs of society to move freely, gain access, communicate, trade and establish relationships ». Mobility is key to economic and social development. Mobility brings progress and is essential to our modern way of life. It is intended to improve the quality of life. The demand and need for mobility, for both people and goods, is accelerating.

Stakeholders in the throes of change

Today mobility’s stakeholders – the energy, automotive and parts supplier industries, governments and consumers – are adjusting to global trends. The economic downturn has brought restructuring, downsizing and new focus to the traditional players of the sector. New firms and non-car making companies are emerging to respond to new opportunities. Governments have awakened to the urgent need for new policies to meet targets and establish frameworks.

After successive crises consumers are showing increasing awareness and are taking onboard lifestyle changes. Action is needed to retain a vibrant transport sector which can face up to the challenges of today.

Taking up the challenges

In view of the current context and the multiple challenges and expectations there is no place for complacency nor reason for timidity. The transport sector has the knowledge, expertise and innovation to move forward. Although sorely tried by the economic downturn it is emerging restructured, refocused confident in the knowledge that policies and frameworks are now being drafted so that the sector can follow a carbon-free trajectory.

Read also:
- What is sustainability?
- Is mobility as we know it sustainable?
- Mobility challenged by unsustainable trends

Categories: Sustainable mobility - Urban mobility

Keywords: downsizing - Transportation