E NVIRONMENTAL
TRAVELING THE
GREEN ROAD
ROADMAP
policies to curb such emissions. Currently
As the world continues to urbanise
With global energy demands on the
the world is in the process of greening
rapidly, the importance of developing
increase, coupled with the depletion of
the transport sector and South Africa is
sustainable and smart cities is becoming
our natural resources and the negative
participating in these initiatives.
increasingly important. Nevertheless, this
impact of fossil based energy sources
accelerated urbanisation will continue
on the environment, the issues of clean,
“The Department of Trade and Industry
to exert pressure on resources like
sustainable energy have become a reality.
(the dti) is collaborating with the United
energy and water, as well as on the
Nations Industry Development Organization
environment’s carrying capacity to
Energy innovation and the efficient use
(UNIDO) to facilitate and promote the
absorb waste and emissions.
of energy are two key components of
introduction of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
mitigating these challenges. This article
through the South African Low-Carbon
Mobility is a key issue in cities.
serves as a catalyst for sustainable
Transport Project. This project will culminate
Sustainable transport is vital for
transport systems in supporting sustainable
among others in the erection of EV charging
maintaining good air quality, reducing
development that benefits our needs.
infrastructure and awareness raising
energy-use and greenhouse gas
campaigns targeting this technology.
emissions, and enabling inhabitants to
In the wake of global efforts to curb the
commute efficiently and according to
emission of climate change impacting
“However, this is not the first instance of
their needs. Having adequate transport
greenhouse gases and the emission of
electrifying transportation modes in South
infrastructure, together with inclusive
exhaust gases that are detrimental to
Africa, the Class 1 E electric locomotives
and sustainable industrialisation, is
human health, these are important times
was introduced to the market as early as
a precursor to economic development,
for South Africa to continue demonstrating
mid-1920s. Continued improvement in the
job creation and prosperity for all.
to the world its capabilities.
rail infrastructure led to the recent addition of high-speed locomotives like the Gautrain,
UNIDO supports countries in jointly
the local manufacturing of a prototype
addressing their urban and industrial
as the second
electric car – the joule and gas-driven Bus
development challenges through its work
largest contributor
rapid Transit Systems that South Africans
in fostering sustainable cities. UNIDO’s
to Greenhouse Gas
are so proud of today.” - EVIA Foreword,
interventions focus on promoting higher
Transport is identified
(GHG) emissions
Lionel October, DG, dti
efficiency, low-carbon
both domestically and
production throughout
globally and hence cannot
the vehicle
be ignored when developing
