Transport decarbonisation in South Africa: a case for active transport

Over two-thirds of greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change emanate from transport. This could double by 2050. With per capita emissions nearly twice the global average, South Africa ranks 13th globally on GHG emissions with road transport, directly and indirectly, accounting for 91.2% of total transport GHG emissions. It has been projected that by 2100, up to 100% increase in the country’s average temperature above the 20th century average rise. This has far-reaching implications, even for the transport sector. To decarbonise its transport sector, South Africa has committed to reducing its GHG emissions by 34% by 2020 and 42% by 2025, respectively, through pointed strategies and policies. However, efficient implementation of proposed measures and sufficient funding remain daunting challenges. Thus, this paper contends that adequate attention has not been paid to active transport in the country’s transport decarbonisation policy implementation despite its inclusion in policy statements. It then asserts that active transport is indispensable to South Africa’s achievement of its transport decarbonisation goals, especially when steps taken hitherto seem ineffective. Consequently, the right attitudes, regulatory instruments, and policy initiatives towards the promotion of active transport are recommended.