The Current State of Transportation in Mexico
In Mexico, transportation remains a privilege rather than a right for millions. Public transport is often insufficient, expensive, and unsafe. This situation reflects a structural crisis, as Dr. Isabel Studer, President and CEO of Sostenibilidad Global, points out.
Dr. Studer explains that transportation has not been a priority in Mexican cities, both large and small. She emphasizes that public transport should be considered a basic right.
The Birth of the Sustainable Mobility Alliance for All (AMST)
To address this crisis, Sostenibilidad Global launched the Alianza por la Movilidad Sostenible para Tod@s (AMST). The alliance aims to translate evidence into action, bringing together governments, businesses, communities, and civil society to accelerate the transition towards a clean, fair, and accessible transportation system.
Dr. Studer stresses that the AMST is not about more promises or isolated projects but making sustainable mobility a shared reality.
Three Pillars of the AMST
The AMST is built on three pillars: social innovation, inspiring projects, and evidence-based public policy. The goal is to move away from top-down decision-making models and embrace co-created processes where all actors recognize their shared responsibility.
Dr. Studer highlights that 80% of Mexico’s population resides in urban centers, yet public transport remains insufficient. This forces people to rely on private vehicles, exacerbating inequality and pollution.
Formalization Without Exclusion
One of Dr. Studer’s main concerns is the informality dominating public and freight transportation. She clarifies that formalization does not mean exclusion but integration of existing actors.
In the State of Mexico, where Sostenibilidad Global collaborates with local authorities, the AMST promotes training workshops and dialogues with small transport operators. The aim is to help them see formalization as an opportunity rather than a threat.
Innovative Projects for Sustainable Mobility
ElectroLogística: This initiative focuses on urban distribution using electric vehicles, targeting “last-mile” routes. Companies can reduce operational costs by up to 50% through electrification and smart management systems.
Red de Paradores Seguros con Electrolineras: This project tackles two issues simultaneously: road insecurity and the lack of charging infrastructure. Safe parking spots will offer charging stations while also stimulating local economies.
AI and Technology with a Social Focus
Dr. Studer acknowledges that artificial intelligence, like any new technology, consumes energy and increases electricity demand. However, she notes that its proportionate energy consumption is less than other industries and that companies are transitioning to renewable energy sources.
She emphasizes that innovation should not be feared but utilized, ensuring a balance between economic, environmental, and social aspects.
Climate Justice: Transportation as a Right
Dr. Studer links sustainable mobility to climate justice and public health. Transportation accounts for nearly 30% of Mexico’s greenhouse gas emissions, but the issue extends beyond CO2 to air quality and public health.
She argues that the transition should not solely focus on technology but also consider social equity, ensuring accessible, safe, and clean transportation for all.
Vision 2030: Concrete Actions, Not Just Words
With the 2030 deadline set by the United Nations for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Studer emphasizes that concrete actions are needed within the next five years.
She suggests implementing clean transport in ten cities, reallocating subsidies, and modernizing small business fleets as starting points for transforming the transportation system by 2030.
Querétaro: A Model for Change
One of the AMST’s most advanced projects will take place in Querétaro, where a forthcoming agreement aims to strengthen electrologistics and professionalize public transportation.
Solidarity: The Driving Force of Sustainable Mobility
Dr. Studer concludes that solidarity is the essence of the AMST and its surrounding environment. She explains that a socially and environmentally sustainable economy is crucial for long-term competitiveness and genuine growth.
