Australia needs to get motoring on clean transport strategy

Dr Bjorn Sturmberg. Image: Jamie Kidston - Australia lacks a clear strategy for transitioning to clean transport options and must urgently adopt one , according to a team of 18 experts who've come together to outline the next steps. Co-author of the Framework for an Australian Clean Transport Strategy (FACTS) Dr Bjorn Sturmberg from The Australian National University, says the lack of clear direction is slowing our adoption of clean technologies, su ch as electric cars and buses.  " We risk leaving our streets full of toxic exhausts and noise," Dr Sturmberg from the ANU Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program said.  "FACTS provides steps that all levels of government and industry can take today to put Australia on a path to a clean and low -cost transport system. "From looking overseas it's clear a cleaner transport future involves taking less trips where possible and shifting to more shared modes of transport, as well as improving access to electric vehicles. " State and local governments need to do their bit by improving public transport options and leading by example when it comes to things like remote work arrangements and transitioning fleets to electric vehicles." "Australia's exposure to volatile oil imports is driving up the price we pay at the bowser and for our groceries and services ," he said. Australia's transport sector is one of the most emission intensive sectors. Based on Australia's current emission reduction targets, transport will represent more than 50 per cent of the country's domestic emissions by 2030.