Sustainable Transport is sometimes known as “Green Transport” and it is any form of transport that does not use or rely on dwindling natural resources. Instead it relies on renewable or regenerated energy rather than fossil fuels that have a finite life expectancy. For this reason it is said to have a low or a negative effect on the environment since it makes use of energy sources that are sustainable.
It is only relatively recently that people began to be concerned about future oil supplies. A combination of political unrest in major oil producing areas, like the Middle East, combined with the fact that reserves are running out in areas such as the US, has heightened this concern and had the combined effect of focusing the mind on seeking alternative energy sources, and pushing up prices. Added to that, during the last few years people have simply become more environmentally conscious. Whereas before, in many people’s eyes the resources of the world were simply there to be made use of, whereas now there is an almost universal appreciation of the fact that the world’s resources will not last for ever and that once they are gone they are gone for good.
What are the alternatives?
- Hybrid vehicles have been developed as an alternative to conventional cars. These are quickly gaining in popularity. Generally, they combine an internal combustion engine with an electric engine, although there are some fully electric models available. Other vehicles run on natural gas.
- Biofuel, a cleaner alternative to petrol and diesel
- Solar power
- Hydrogen
- Nuclear power
Looking to the future
Transport is a vital part of our everyday life. The prevailing 20th century view was to rely on fossil fuels for most of our transport needs and to ignore any consequences. In the 21st century, we have woken up to the fact that there is a need for us to care for the world around us.
Submitted by Ashanti Mbanga, Miss Earth South Africa Regional Finalist 2013
(Source: Earth Times)
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Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Edna Molewa is still studying a report from rhino issue manager Mavuso Msimang on how South Africa can better protect its rhinos.
