All rights reserved. The International Chamber of Commerce had anticipated Chapter 27 of Agenda 21, on strengthening the role of non-governmental partners, and Chapter 30, on strengthening the role of business and industry, by developing and adopting the ICC Business Charter for Sustainable Development in 1990. In line with the Business Charter commitment to help business improve its environmental performance, the ICC is developing an overall transport strategy to meet three sustainable development objectives - economic development, social equity and environmental protection. Transport occupies an irreplaceable socio-economic position linking supply to demand. Current market forces will continue to increase transport demand.
Transport is indispensable to trade, tourism, development and the well being of any economy.
Efficient transport systems are a necessity for economic development and social welfare and also reduce the scope for an adverse impact on the environment. Transport users and transport providers are well aware of their fundamental economic role and their social responsibilities regarding safety, labour conditions, the environment, energy efficiency and, consequently, sustainable development. Commercial transport users and transport providers recognize that there is a common goal, not a conflict, between the development of transport and environmental protection, both now and for future generations. The road, air, maritime and rail transport industries have a common interest in achieving the objectives of sustainable development, taking into account the characteristics and context in which different transport modes operate. Many modern transport systems operate globally and it is important that well-established and extensive international regulations are in place and should continue.