Advances and challenges in sustainable, efficient, and fair transportation

Bilbao, April 2023.- Transport is one of the most polluting sectors in the world, and its role in the fight against climate change is crucial. In this regard, three recent news stories show different advances and challenges in the search for more sustainable and efficient transport.

Air News

The Alliance for Sustainable Air Transport, formed by the main actors in the Spanish aeronautical sector, aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. To achieve this, the alliance will focus on the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and will seek to promote their manufacture and consumption. Although the production of SAFs is not yet sufficient to meet demand, the association hopes that incentives will be established for their production and to reduce the price gap. The adoption of SAFs in the aviation industry is key to reducing the sector’s carbon footprint and achieving more sustainable air transport.

Maritime News

On the other hand, the decrease in bottlenecks in maritime containers, according to the GATE Center’s BottleNeck indicator, is good news for the maritime transport industry and the global economy in general. However, the GATE Center warns of a moderation in the fall since November 2022 due to inflationary pressures and rising interest rates. This shows that there is still work to be done to achieve more efficient and sustainable maritime transport.

Road News

Finally, the lack of truck drivers in Spain is a problem for the stability and continuity of transport and supply chains. The lack of interest among younger generations in this profession is a problem for the future, and although measures have been taken, it is necessary to improve working conditions, safety, and protection of drivers to make the profession more attractive in the long term. In the short term, a solution could be the hiring of drivers from third countries, according to the executive vice president of ASTIC, Ramón Valdivia.

In addition, the European transport sector has expressed its support for non-EU truck drivers on strike in Germany and called for joint measures to end labor exploitation and ensure compliance with social rights throughout the European Union.

General Economic News

Meanwhile, in relation to the continent’s economy, the European Central Bank has postponed the discussion of changing its inflation target, set at 2%, until inflation is under control with current parameters. Currently, inflation in the eurozone stands at 6.9%, and although prices are moderating, they are not expected to return to pre-pandemic levels. In 2021, the ECB slightly revised its inflation target, allowing for some flexibility.