Over the last two decades, sustainable development has evolved from an academic concept into a prominent international objective. Governments, individuals and businesses are increasingly aware of the global issues driving the pursuit of sustainability—climate change, resource depletion, social inequity— and the effects they have on quality of life in our own communities. Mobility gives individuals access to important services, and as such is a basic necessity of contemporary urban life. But cities all over the world face unsustainable patterns of mobility provision and consumption, with many suffering from congestion, pollution, community degradation and social dysfunction. Ultimately, sustainability will demand a new balance between collective and personal transportation. This kind of integrated response to major economic, environmental and societal concerns can only be achieved through a transformation of urban areas—one in which transit systems and suppliers will play a key role. As the clash between human progress and the natural environment intensifies, the importance of sustainable development will only grow. It is clear that Canada’s public transit industry will continue to play a key role in the continued health and prosperity of our cities, and indeed of our entire nation.
