Home

Health in the green economy – Transport sector, the book

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The South African departments of Transport and Health today launched the book: Health co-benefits of climate change mitigation – Transport sector, marking a joint partnership with the World Health Organisation. The launch was announced during a media briefing at Durban’s Inkosi Luthuli International Convention Centre. Deputy Transport minister Jeremy Cronin says there is an acknowledgement from the transport sector that public transport issues are not part of the COP 17 agenda. Cronin says people need to be reminded that transport is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gases, thus he says he is pleased to see the synergy between the three entities. He says what is even more pleasing about the partnership is that this year marks the United Nation’s Year of Road Safety.Cronin says statistics indicate that 1.5 million deaths recorded are a result of road accidents in the developing world. He notes that road accidents are the number one killer for young children. He says seeing the merger of health, transport as well as climate justice issues is pleasing, further noting that an average bus trip for a working South African would be between 20-25 kilometres, as compared to 8km in developed countries.

Part of the book’s review shows that a good transport system is important in curbing diseases like obesity

WHO Environmental Health officer, Carlos Dora, highlights that a great deal of health depends on transportation, which in turn has implications on health, pollution as well as road accidents. He says the larger aspect of the book and the initiative is to promote healthy living which includes cycling and walking, which are vital for physical activity. He says it is because of such that the mitigation of climate change and health issues is important. The initiative will also help record the number of lives saved through the use of transportation that is good for people’s health, the environment as well as climate. He says part of the book’s review shows that a good transport system is important in curbing diseases like obesity, bowl cancer and other health risks. Dora further says the introduction of good engines and fuels will also be key to reducing carbon emissions. –> Wrapping up the press briefing, Chief Director of Regional services in the Department of Health, Dr Ramphelane Morewane, pointed out that disease, trauma and injuries caused by road accidents are among highlights of the book. He says “if people invested in healthy lifestyles, like walking and cycling, it also means engaging in physical activity to reduce cardiovascular diseases, in turn leading to a healthy life and a longer life span.Morewane says he welcomes the book, saying the entities will from now on tap into the complex issues involved to enhance partnerships between the Transport and Health ministries.

– By Tshepo Tsheole, Durban

Author

MOST READ