GFEI contributes to urban mobility solutions in Brussels
The Global Fuel Economy Initiative was invited to share its global approach to improving vehicle efficiency at a new technology-focused conference in Brussels.
The 2017 Global Science, Technology & Innovation Conference (G-STIC 2017) is the first in a series of G-STIC events that will bring together key stakeholders that can lead the world on a more sustainable course. The event included participants from the science, technology and innovation communities to review, discuss and identify internationally relevant technological innovations. The series was jointly hosted by the Belgian research institute (VITO), and its international partners the Asian Institute of Technology, the Indian Institute of Technology and TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute).
Sheila Watson, GFEI Executive Director, participated in a panel discussion on ‘barriers and opportunities for sustainable transport policies’, as part of the electric urban mobility theme. She highlighted the role that electric vehicles can play in a transition to low-carbon mobility, but also reinforced the need to ensure that standards for all vehicles continue to be tightened to improve vehicle efficiency and reduce harmful emissions. GFEI’s expertise across these technologies means that expert partners are able to support governments to develop integrated policy frameworks.
Other speakers in the urban electric mobility theme included Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat, who discussed the importance of the SDGs and the urban agenda. Philippe Crist, of GFEI partner ITF also highlighted the role technology and innovation in mobility, while Lew Fulton of GFEI partner UC Davis gave an overview of trends in electric vehicles, car sharing, public transport and the integration of modes.
The discussion concluded that e-mobility solutions are increasingly a key element to sustainable urban transport, but need to be integrated in a wider concept for sustainable mobility to deliver on climate change mitigation targets and on opportunities for contributions to wider sustainable development objectives. Policies on fuel taxation and vehicle regulation are basic components of the required package, but also need to be part of a wider set of local infrastructure measures in cities.
