UNEP says green transport key to boost air quality in China

China should adopt transport systems that rely on cleaner fuels to boost air quality and human health in mega cities, a senior United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) official said late Thursday.

Rob de Jong, the head of transport unit at UNEP, told Xinhua during an interview in Nairobi that Beijing is well positioned to provide stewardship on green transport in cities.

"Definitely, China has made progress in environmental protection in the last decade. Adoption of clean diesel fuel in cities has improved air quality. But this progress is not sufficient," Jong said.

According to Jong, China has the potential to become a global exemplar on green transportation in cities, if the country scales up investments in speed trains and hybrid cars that use cleaner fuels.

Jong stressed that enforcement of legislation on adoption of clean diesel will strengthen response to air pollution in Chinese mega cities.

China and other emerging markets should share best practices in order to promote green transportation in cities.

"China is a leader in the rapid switch to clean fuels and investment in speed trains," Jong noted.

Robust policies and legislation alongside infrastructure development are crucial to promote green transportation across cities in China and the developing world.

Jong stressed that a paradigm shift is an imperative to help tackle traffic congestion and the attendant air pollution in cities across China and Africa.

"It is possible to re-invent mobility in cities, if people switch from heavy use of cars to cycling and walking," Jong said.

He clarified that mega cities in the west are still grappling with air pollution, but have adopted relatively innovative measures to manage this challenge.

Green transportation will not only advance urban renewal, but will also unleash social, health and economic benefits in the developing world.

Jong hailed China's renewed focus on environmental health for cities that have experienced rapid population growth and industrialization.

"China is focusing on economic development while promoting environmental sustainability," he added.