The Future of Freight Part A: Understanding the System

This study is the first in our Future of Freight Series of reports in which we use the methodology of the Transition Accelerator to identify and implement credible and compelling transition pathways that are capable to moving Canada to a vibrant and sustainable, low carbon future.

The first stage in the Accelerator’s four stage methodology (Understand, Codevelop, Analyze and Advance) is to understand the sector that needs to be transformed, including its strengths and weaknesses, and the nature of the technology, business model, policy and social innovations that have the potential to transform the sector.  Such forces need to be harnessed if the sector is to change in a way that meets societal needs, including – but not limited to – addressing the challenge of climate change.

The report makes a case that the freight transport sector is on the cusp of major changes driven by improvements in efficiency and competitiveness.  The possible shift to zero-emission or very low carbon fuels is entirely consistent with such a transformational change.  Future reports will explore how to make that happen.