World Sustainable Transport Day 2025: Building a Decade of Change

On 26 November 2025, the world marks World Sustainable Transport Day, a United Nations observance established in 2023 to highlight the role of safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year’s event is particularly significant as it precedes the launch of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035).

For New Zealand, and organisations like Rautāpatu, working on sustainability, the Day is a chance to reflect on progress, challenges, and the opportunities ahead.

Why Sustainable Transport Matters

Transport is the backbone of modern society. It connects people to jobs, education, healthcare, and cultural opportunities. It enables trade, tourism, and innovation. Yet, transport is also one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly 25% of energy-related CO₂ emissions worldwide.

The challenge is clear: we must rethink mobility to make it cleaner, safer, and more inclusive. Sustainable transport encompasses:

• Public transit systems that are efficient, affordable, and accessible.

• Active mobility options like walking and cycling, which improve health and reduce emissions.

• Low-carbon freight solutions, including rail and shipping innovations.

• Digital technologies that optimise traffic flows and reduce congestion.

• Equitable access, ensuring rural and marginalised communities are not left behind.

The Road to the Decade of Sustainable Transport

The upcoming Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035) is a rallying call for governments, businesses, and civil society. It aims to:

• Raise awareness of transport’s crucial role in sustainable development.

• Mobilise resources and partnerships to accelerate innovation.

• Support evidence-based policymaking, ensuring decisions are grounded in data.

• Strengthen regional cooperation, particularly in areas like Asia-Pacific where rapid urbanisation and economic growth demand smarter mobility solutions.

New Zealand’s Transport Transition

New Zealand’s transport sector contributes nearly 17–19% of national greenhouse gas emissions. The government has committed to reducing transport emissions by 41% by 2035 and achieving net zero by 2050. Key initiatives include:

• Budget 2025 investments in rail, roads, airports, and maritime safety.

• Zero Carbon Act strategies promoting public transport, cycling, and electric vehicles.

• Waka Kotahi programmes expanding walking and cycling infrastructure.

• Community engagement through local councils and NGOs, from cycleways in Christchurch to low-emission bus fleets in Wellington.

At Rautapatu, we support these transitions by promoting awareness of sustainable transport options, partnering with local organisations to encourage cycling and walking, and providing resources that help communities understand the link between transport and climate resilience.

Active Mobility

Cycling and walking are gaining traction as sustainable options:

• Cycling infrastructure is expanding, with dedicated bike lanes and eco-friendly materials.

• Integration with public transport is being prioritised, ensuring seamless connections between buses, trains, and cycleways.

• Health and equity benefits: Active mobility reduces emissions while improving public health and accessibility for lower-income households.

Rautapatu champions active mobility by running community workshops, supporting councils in designing inclusive systems, and sharing stories of individuals and communities who have embraced walking and cycling as part of their daily lives.

Linking Transport to Climate Action

Transport is central to climate policy. Without decisive action, emissions from this sector could rise by 60% by 2050. Sustainable transport strategies directly contribute to climate resilience:

• Electrification of vehicles powered by renewable energy.

• Modal shifts from cars to buses, trains, and bicycles.

• Green freight corridors that reduce emissions from shipping and trucking.

• Urban planning that minimises travel distances and promotes compact cities.

Rautāpatu advocates for stronger climate policies that prioritise sustainable transport.

Our work includes publishing accessible guides on how individuals and businesses can reduce their transport footprint, and collaborating with schools and community groups to embed sustainability into everyday travel choices.

Partnerships for Progress

No single actor can achieve sustainable transport alone. Partnerships are essential:

• Governments must set ambitious policies and invest in infrastructure.

• Private sector innovators can develop new technologies, from electric buses to smart logistics.

• Civil society organisations play a role in advocacy and awareness.

• International bodies like ESCAP provide platforms for cooperation and knowledge-sharing.

Rautāpatu contributes by fostering local partnerships, ensuring that Māori and Pasifika voices are included in transport planning, and advocating for resilient infrastructure in coastal communities.

Raising Awareness: The Role of World Sustainable Transport Day

World Sustainable Transport Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is a global awareness campaign that inspires action at every level. Activities include:

• Educational programmes highlighting the benefits of sustainable mobility.

• Community events such as car-free days, bike rallies, and public transport fairs.

• Policy dialogues bringing together stakeholders to discuss solutions.

• Multimedia campaigns showcasing success stories and innovations.

By engaging citizens, policymakers, and businesses, the Day builds momentum for the Decade ahead.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for 2035

What might the world look like at the end of the Decade of Sustainable Transport in 2035? Imagine:

• Cities where electric buses glide silently through clean air.

• High-speed rail networks connecting regions efficiently.

• Streets dominated by cyclists and pedestrians, not traffic jams.

• Freight systems powered by green hydrogen and smart logistics.

• Universal access to affordable transport, bridging divides between rural and urban communities.

At Rautāpatu, we imagine a future where transport systems are not only sustainable but also culturally grounded, where Māori values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) guide infrastructure decisions, and where communities feel empowered to shape their mobility choices.

Conclusion

World Sustainable Transport Day 2025 is a reminder that mobility is more than movement—it is a lifeline for sustainable development. For New Zealand, the Day underscores the urgency of aligning transport with climate goals, cultural values, and community needs.

At Rautāpatu, we are proud to support this global initiative. Our work in sustainability - whether through community engagement, advocacy, or education - reflects our belief that transport must serve both people and planet. As the Decade of Sustainable Transport begins, we stand ready to contribute, collaborate, and champion the changes needed to build a cleaner, fairer, and more connected world.