“Therefore, Transdev Group stands with the UITP and the UN Environment Program (UNEP) in support of their joint statement “Moving on from Covid-19 on the right track” which calls for smarter investments in our communities to address climate change. Transdev, as a trusted partner is committed to support and guide cities and transit authorities to rebuild their services with clean, green and efficient public transportation.
First, a few facts. As we stand today, global warming is already at +1.2 C° versus 1900; every year is warmer than the previous, and the phenomenon is accelerating. The IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) requires from us to reduce GHG (Green House Gas) emissions by 40% over the next 10 years! That is one significant reduction, one which can only be met if we accelerate the energy transition to meet crucial deadlines and prevent even greater global warming, which in turn would render our planet unlivable on the long term.
Second, with about a quarter of global GHG emissions, transportation is the second largest CO2 contributor in the world, while private cars represent the majority of these 25%. With 50% of the world’s population living in large urban areas, public transportation has a key role to play in decarbonizing mobility.
Third, with less than 5g of CO2 per passenger kilometer, electric mass transit modes (metro, tramway, buses…) are clearly the way to go forward in large urban areas. These transportation modes are also the most efficient in terms of passenger cost. That’s why, for example, the increased deployment of electric battery- and hydrogen-powered buses should be accelerated, as a clear path which a number of European countries (The Netherlands, Sweden France, Germany…) have already widely taken.
As an operator and global integrator of daily mobility we – at Transdev – are committed to doing whatever it takes with our teams and clients to provide a reliable, enhanced, safe, sustainable and modern travel experience for all.
We are convinced this is what populations globally expect from us, and which our teams eager to contribute building. Through the European Green Deal, investing in public transportation is investing in health, decreasing pollution through cleaner public transportation not only positive for the planet, but also makes sense economically. As stated by the UITP, worldwide approximately 13 million jobs are linked to public transportation and related services. It presents us with a unique opportunity that can have a profound positive economic effect on the communities we serve.
Covid-19 has changed our lives forever, and it is now clear – more than ever – that the way we live and move has an impact not only on us, but also on our environment. Today, we have an even greater responsibility to regain the confidence of our passengers in public transportation, to assist communities in rebuilding, and it is an opportunity to embrace green technology, renewable energies and sustainable sectors that will put our planet on a straight track to decarbonization.
As we look to building a better future, it is obvious that green, clean, sustainable public transportation is essential for improving quality of life and health while protecting our environment.On this #WorldEnvironmentDay, we, at Transdev, acknowledge that it is time #ForNature for a sustainable future.”
Thierry Mallet, Chairman & CEO Transdev Group