Three transport and infrastructure peak bodies have issued a new report calling for industry transformation to accelerate the transport sector’s pursuit of net-zero emissions.
The Journey to Net-Zero – Inspiring Climate Action in the Transport Sector, delivered last week as part of a partnership between Roads Australia (RA), the Australasian Railway Association (ARA) and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC), includes 46 recommendations to accelerate decarbonisation in the sector.
According to the report, 70 per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions are either attributable to or influenced by infrastructure.
Drawing on local and global examples of best practice, the report features 29 case studies demonstrating existing technology and strategies for carbon reduction.
It sets out a series of recommended actions for government and industry to support a focus on place making, reducing emissions, supporting investment in renewables and innovation, and promoting engagement and collaboration.
Caroline Wilkie, ARA Chief Executive Officer, said the transport sector will play a key role in achieving net-zero targets.
“Transport systems shape how we live and work and will be a critical part of our sustainable development,” she said.
Michael Kilgariff, RA Chief Executive Officer, said the report demonstrated the industry’s commitment to supporting climate action.
“This report is a powerful demonstration of industry’s willingness to set up and play its part in driving change,” he said.
“The collaboration between our organisations sends a powerful signal that all transport modes have a responsibility to deliver enhanced sustainability outcomes – and we will only achieve those by working together.”
The report identifies five key areas of action to support the sector on its net-zero journey.
These include creating a national, strategic approach to transport and infrastructure; introducing policies and investment that promote the development of efficient, sustainable transport systems; enabling collaboration, capacity building and education at all stage of the process and advocating for new approaches to procurement; implementing governance structures, processes and approaches to drive transparency and decision making to support decarbonisation; and adopting and promoting technology solutions that optimise asset design, construction and operation of road and rail fleets.
Ainsley Simpson, ISC Chief Executive Officer, said while there is longer-term work to be done through policy and investment, there are many solutions currently available to reduce emissions.
“This report confirms that with a national plan we can accelerate short-term action for positive long-term change,” she said.
For the full report, visit: roads.org.au
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