September 23, 2021
Public transport has the power to connect cities, or to push them apart. Quality, well-designed transport systems are fast, comfortable, affordable, and most importantly, accessible. Transport systems have the power to ensure access to urban opportunities, including leisure activities, productive work, and public facilities. Currently, a major challenge is to priotitize public transport investment. In this context, new vehicle technologies should be used to enhance the public transport system, making it more accessible and energy-efficient.
Access to safe, modern public transport provides a true alternative to private vehicle ownership, which is a major source of socioeconomic disparity and a massive contributor to climate change in cities all over the world. Transportation is the fastest-growing source of global climate emissions and the largest single source of black carbon, which is particularly damaging to respiratory health, from gas and diesel engines. Shifting from single-occupancy private cars to high-capacity, zero emissions transport corridors would drastically cut emissions, eliminate traffic congestion, better connect low-income communities to the opportunities and resources they need.
The goal of ITDP’s Public Transport Program is to promote sustainable transport as a principal driver for sustainable and livable cities, understanding that public transport is a key element in guaranteeing access to the city’s opportunities. ITDP’s Public Transport Program supports cities and regions in developing integrated, high-quality public transport networks that are effectively connected to other modes of transport, such as walking and cycling. ITDP uses technical knowledge accumulated through the experience of our regional offices (Africa, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia and Mexico) to support government officials and society and to inspire excellence in implementing good practice solutions and promoting their potential for replication.
Over the past 20 years, ITDP has conducted research and developed guidance for public transport systems, with an emphasis on planning effective BRT corridors as a powerful backbone of high quality public transport. ITDP’s work to develop high quality public transport helps cities meet their residents’ needs, improves quality of life, and supports a thriving urban environment. As the world’s populations move to cities at faster rates, the demand for sustainable transportation will only increase, and the need for better public transport will only increase.
