In this initiative, cities will pledge to plan for BRT solutions by 2020. BRT systems reduce congestion, alleviate private vehicle dependency and promote fuel efficiency, resulting in reduced transport-related greenhouse gas emissions 

High-Impact Area: Cities

Problem Statement: Global emissions from transport are growing faster than any other sector (UN-Habitat, 2010). Approximately 23% of global GHG emissions are attributed to transport (IEA, 2009). Stabilising the concentration of GHG emissions in the atmosphere cannot be achieved if the transport sector does not reduce emissions below current levels. In many circumstances bus rapid transit represents an affordable approach to creating a high-quality public transport system that can attract riders – an advantage in many cities in developing countries. 

Objective: This initiative is framed by a ‘pledge’ from the selected cities to plan for BRT by 2020, and a pledge from multi-lateral development banks (MDBs) and other sources of finance to support the cities in this endeavor.The initiative seeks to connect 20 cities with private sector players and associations in the BRT sphere through a ‘Global BRT Alliance’ facilitating technical guidance and advisory services directly to cities for BRT planning. The desired result is 20 cities with BRT infrastructure or advanced plans for BRT by 2020. Beneficiaries include the selected city populations at large and more specifically marginalized groups including the urban poor, women and youth. 

Going Forward: Build and strengthen engagement of and commitments by all stakeholders

Stakeholders:

• Leadership Group: UN-Habitat, Institute for Transport Development & Policy (ITDP), EMBARQ, International Association of Public Transport (UITP)
• Member State partners: China, Colombia, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Laos, Mongolia, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Philippines, Uganda, USA, UAE
• Business partners: Veolia, Volvo and other leading private sector actors
• Civil society partners: City specific civil society organizations including residents groups, commuter associations and international NGOs (e.g. ITDP)
• Financing partners: MDBs including Development Banks for Africa (AfDB), Asia (ADB), Inter-American (IADB) and the World Bank.

UN-Habitat, Dr. Joan Clos – Executive Director;