Tough Questions, Smart Answers on All Things Transport, People and Planet
Voices across generations of change makers - A podcast series
About this series
Tough Questions, Smart Answers on All Things Transport and Planet is a space curated by the SLOCAT Partnership on Sustainable, Low Carbon Transport for and by professionals, experts and change makers. Collectively, these blogs and storytelling products feature world-class thought leadership and experience on how to enable systemic transformations and a just transition towards equitable, healthy, green and resilient transport and mobility systems for the people and the planet.
Our podcast series will bring together voices across generations of change makers to deepen our understanding on prevailing, burning and emerging issues in the intersection of transport, climate and sustainability.
The podcasts are developed with the SLOCAT-VREF Young Leaders in Sustainable Transport programme, which aims to equip young professionals with skills in evidence-based policy analysis; and the interface between knowledge production and policy making.
Explore episodes
Jump into the insightful conversation between Mr. Oliver Lah, Head of the Mobility and International Cooperation Unit, Wuppertal Institute, Ms. María Rosa Muñoz, Senior Researcher at the Wuppertal Institute and Mr. Spencer S. Taylor, Jr., Director of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Transport in Liberia!
Throughout the episode, they go over SOLUTIONSplus’ global efforts in implementing sustainable e-mobility solutions across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Oliver outlines their approach, involving 48 partners in testing innovative e-mobility solutions, collaborating with local entrepreneurs, cities, and academics to ensure viability and scalability. Rosa introduces their Urban Living Labs method, emphasising the integration of diverse stakeholders to develop business models, policy frameworks, and conduct impact assessments are crucial for sustainable mobility transitions.
We invited Dr. Jan Hoffmann, Chief, Trade Logistics Branch, Division on Technology and Logistics, UN Trade and Development and Mr. Marc Jonathan Douanla Fotseu, Transport Consultant, World Bank Group as our speakers.
Throughout the episode, they explore the challenges facing global supply chains amidst multiple crises such as COVID-19, geopolitical tensions, and climate change impacts. Jan especially emphasises the vulnerabilities of small island developing states (SIDS) to climate disasters and high freight costs, advocating for resilient transport systems through enhanced port infrastructure and digital solutions.
They conclude their conversation with reflections on outcomes from the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum in Barbados, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative approaches to achieve resilient and environmentally responsible global supply chains. He also left a special invitation for all listeners at the end!
Come listen to the interesting conversation between Mr. Chilekwa O’Brien, Research Evaluation Associate, Zambia Road Safety Trust – PATH Partnership for Active Travel and Health, and Ms. Carol Masingi, PhD Researcher, University of Groningen!
During their conversation, Chilekwa highlights their efforts since 2014, supporting road safety and sustainable mobility in Zambia through several programmes, aimed at creating safer environments for pedestrians and cyclists, especially children. He outlines the significant role of walking and cycling in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising how these modes of transport can reduce non-communicable diseases and improve road safety. Addressing gender disparities, Chilekwa points out societal perceptions and safety concerns that deter women from cycling, stressing the need for inclusive urban planning that integrates voices of persons with disabilities and promotes affordable access to bicycles. Looking ahead, he sees a positive future for cycling in Zambia and across Africa, advocating for improved cycling infrastructure and policy prioritisation to foster sustainable and equitable urban mobility.