Climate change is one of the most serious threats facing the world today. There is compelling scientific evidence that the global climate is changing and the primary cause is the release of greenhouse gases resulting from human activity. Many governments are putting in place legislative and policy frameworks at a national level to address climate change.

Whilst transport is a key driver of the economy, it is also a significant and growing contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Recognizing that more than 95% of transport emissions are from vehicular traffic, many climate change measures are based on the evidence that less and more efficient vehicles will produce fewer emissions.

This report provides a summary, based upon a survey of participating PIARC countries, of international policies and strategies adopted by governments and road authorities to respond to the need for mitigation and adaptation of the road transport system with respect to projected impacts of climate change.