The report, entitled “Driving
Towards a Cleaner Environment – A Healthier Future,” calls
for an approach which focuses on ’eco-mobility’,
that is, one that preserves the benefits of individual mobility
while contributing to a better environment.
The report proposes a three-point plan to be implemented
in Canada by federal government. The component points are:
eco-driving, involving the development of consumer focused
programmes to promote fuel conservation through fuel efficient
vehicles, fuel efficient driving and more fuel efficient
transportation options such as public transport, car pooling
and cycling.
The second is increased investment in safer road infrastructure,
better road design and advanced traffic management systems.
The third is improved automobile fuel efficiency through
the implementation of more effective fuel efficiency standards
for automobiles sold in Canada.
The greatest results, the report states, will be achieved
through a strategy that encompasses elements of all three
approaches. Mobility, it says, is very important to a large
country like Canada where the population is so dispersed.
Personal mobility is considered to be an essential element
in measuring quality of life. Safe and well maintained
road infrastructure is important to Canada’s economic
system, the personal mobility of the population and the
environment.
The strategy presented in the report, its authors say,
is fully implementable. If implemented, it is estimated
that motorists' greenhouse gasses (GHGs) could be cut by
30 to almost 50 per cent. Such an achievement, however,
rests on an integrated approach involving leadership from
the public, government and industry alike.
David Flewelling, President of CAA said, “"If
it follows our recommendations, the federal government
has a tremendous opportunity for leadership in implementing
real solutions for Canadians concerned about climate change.
We look forward to bringing more like-minded groups together
in the future to offer real solutions."
To read a PDF version of the report, please click here.
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