BRICS Transport Working Group Aligns Priorities on Sustainable Transport and Air Connectivity
Sustainable Transport Takes Center Stage
The first technical meeting of the BRICS Transport Working Group (GT) has concluded, setting the stage for the upcoming summit event. The meeting, led by representatives of the bloc, focused on aligning priority themes that will be presented at the summit, including sustainable transport and air connectivity. The discussions highlighted the sustainability agendas worked on by the Federal Government for the country’s logistics modes.
Air Transport: Reducing Pollutant Gases and Implementing Clean Energy Policies
MPor representatives presented proposals to promote sustainable infrastructure for transport modes, focusing on urban mobility, during the meeting. Concurrently, they discussed challenges in reducing pollutant gases and implementing clean energy policies in air transport. Brazil, a pioneer in sustainable aviation fuel production, launched the first synthetic oil production plant for manufacturing sustainable fuel last year. This initiative actively supports the country’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, enhancing BRICS Transport cooperation. By promoting sustainable aviation fuel, Brazil strengthens air connectivity and reduces environmental impact.
Enhancing Air Connectivity between Member Countries
To encourage connectivity between member countries, the summit’s technicians are working on a project to increase air connections between the bloc’s nations. This project aims to strengthen foreign relations, develop sustainability initiatives, and promote social inclusion. According to a recent report, air connectivity has the potential to increase trade between BRICS countries by up to 20% by 2027.
Decarbonization of Ports and Maritime Transport: A Key Priority
During the meeting, attendees actively discussed the decarbonization of Ports and Maritime Transport, a key aspect of BRICS Transport development. Meanwhile, the Brazilian group stressed the necessity of adopting sustainable, low-carbon fuels, aligning with International Maritime Organization goals. Consequently, these fuels will reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions, a crucial step since the maritime industry generates around 2.5% of global emissions. Furthermore, direct energy supply from ports to ships is essential to increase air connectivity and mitigate the environmental impact.
BRICS International Logistics Alliance: A Humanitarian Initiative
Brazilian technicians proposed creating a BRICS International Logistics Alliance, a social and humanitarian action, during the meeting. This alliance will provide agile logistics for humanitarian purposes, as seen in the Rio Grande do Sul tragedy last year. Consequently, it will facilitate the transportation of aid and relief materials during natural disasters and other crises, enhancing air connectivity. By streamlining logistics, the alliance will expedite emergency responses, saving lives and reducing suffering.
Upcoming Meetings and Summit
During Brazil’s presidency, the BRICS Transport Working Group convened its first technical meeting, marking a significant milestone. Subsequently, two more meetings are scheduled for 2025, in April and May, ahead of a ministerial meeting in Brasília. Later, the 17th BRICS meeting will take place on July 6 and 7 in Rio de Janeiro, where the Group’s achievements will be showcased.
The BRICS Transport Working Group actively promotes sustainable transport and innovation, fostering air connectivity and social inclusion. Moreover, the discussed initiatives demonstrate the bloc’s commitment to strengthening foreign relations and developing sustainability projects. As the host country, Brazil has set the theme, “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” emphasizing cooperation and sustainable growth among member countries.
Source: Special Advisory for Social Communication
Ministry of Ports and Airports – Brazilian Government