Wednesday, July 9, 2025
African research, science and scholarly  news
HomeRESEARCH PAPERSSustainable Transport in Johannesburg: Challenges, Opportunities, and Solutions for a Greener Future

Sustainable Transport in Johannesburg: Challenges, Opportunities, and Solutions for a Greener Future

A recent study by Thaba, S. C. (2025) titled “Possibilities of sustainable transport in the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) in South Africa” published in Proceedings of the International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management shows that the major challenges hindering sustainable transport include poverty, unemployment, and high crime rates.

Poverty, unemployment, and crime hinder sustainable transport in Johannesburg, requiring renewable energy and socio-economic reforms.– Thaba, S. C. 2025

The article delves into the prospects of establishing sustainable transport in Johannesburg, South Africa. It examines both the challenges and opportunities associated with creating a transport system that is eco-friendly, reliable, affordable, and safe for both people and the environment. Through exploratory research, the study assesses the current state of transportation in South Africa, identifying key obstacles to progress. These include overpopulation, socio-economic challenges such as poverty and unemployment, and high crime rates within the city. The article highlights initiatives by the Department of Transport (DoT) aimed at providing effective and integrated transport services. These efforts include promoting the use of clean fuels such as natural gas and biofuels. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of integrated planning strategies, increased investment in renewable energy, and addressing underlying socio-economic issues to achieve a sustainable transport system in Johannesburg.

How the Study was Conducted

The author employed descriptive research; this method was used to describe and understand the current status of sustainable transport in Johannesburg. It involved collecting data and information to describe “what exists” with respect to variables or conditions in the situation.The author also employed exploratory research; this method was chosen due to the early development of literature on sustainable transport in South Africa. It aimed to lay the groundwork for future studies and to understand more about the idea of sustainable transport. The study focused on the experiences of the City of Johannesburg (CoJ). Data was collected using observation methods, including attending conference seminars and workshops on transport to observe and take notes. The research relied on qualitative data, where collected information was described, discussed, and evaluated to come up with findings and recommendations.

What the Author Found

The author found that the major challenges hindering sustainable transport include poverty, unemployment, and high crime rates. These socio-economic issues make it difficult to implement sustainable transport solutions effectively. The study also posits that there is a significant potential for using renewable energy sources like biofuels and biogas to replace fossil fuels in the transport sector. However, the production of biofuels is currently at a very small scale, and most of the manufacturers are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) that are unlicensed. The transport sector needs to focus on enterprise and supplier development to create sustainable job opportunities. This includes supporting the production and use of renewable energy sources within the transport sector.

Why is this important?

Environmental Impact: Sustainable transport reduces reliance on fossil fuels, which helps mitigate climate change and environmental degradation. This is crucial for a city like Johannesburg, which faces significant pollution and environmental challenges.

Socio-Economic Benefits: By focusing on renewable energy and enterprise development, the study highlights ways to create job opportunities and reduce poverty. This is particularly important in Johannesburg, where high unemployment and poverty rates are major concerns.

Health and Safety: Sustainable transport systems can improve public health by reducing air pollution and promoting active modes of transport like cycling and walking. Additionally, addressing safety concerns for cyclists and pedestrians can make the city more livable.

Economic Growth: Investing in sustainable transport can boost economic growth by improving mobility, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting local businesses involved in renewable energy production.

Future Planning: The study provides a framework for future research and policy development, helping to guide the city towards a more sustainable and resilient transport system.

What the Author Recommended

  • The author recommends that the transport sector should shift its focus from merely providing transport services to addressing poverty and unemployment through sustainable enterprise and supplier development.
  • There should be a strong push towards using renewable energy sources, such as biofuels and biogas, to replace fossil fuels in the transport sector. This can help reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
  • The study advocates support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) involved in the production of renewable energy should be increased. This can create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth within local communities.
  • Stakeholders, including government, the private sector, and higher education institutions, should collaborate to develop a sound value chain for renewable energy. This can ensure a sustainable market for renewable energy within Johannesburg.
  • In addition, the author emphasizes there should be integrated planning strategies that consider socio-economic challenges and aim to create a sustainable transport system that benefits all citizens.

In conclusion, achieving sustainable transport in Johannesburg requires addressing deeply rooted socio-economic challenges while leveraging renewable energy and innovative planning strategies. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders and investing in enterprise development, the city can create a transport system that is environmentally friendly, economically viable, and socially inclusive. This approach not only enhances mobility but also contributes to poverty alleviation, job creation, and long-term urban resilience. With the right policies and initiatives, Johannesburg has the potential to become a model for sustainable urban transport in Africa.

Cite this Article (APA 7)

Editor, A. M. (January 6, 2025). Sustainable Transport in Johannesburg: Challenges, Opportunities, and Solutions for a Greener Future. African Researchers Magazine (ISSN: 2714-2787). https://www.africanresearchers.org/sustainable-transport-in-johannesburg-challenges-opportunities-and-solutions-for-a-greener-future/

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles

Yoruba Beliefs and Oral Health: Exploring the Spiritual and Cultural Significance of the Mouth in Indigenous Healthcare Practices

Yoruba Beliefs and Oral Health: Exploring the Spiritual and Cultural Significance of the Mouth in Indigenous Healthcare Practices

Illustrative Image: Yoruba Beliefs and Oral Health: Exploring the Spiritual and Cultural Significance of the Mouth in Indigenous Healthcare Practices Image Source & Credit: ACJOAU Ownership...
Unlocking the Potential of Black Fonio Millet: Genetic Diversity and Nutritional Benefits for Sustainable Agriculture in Nigeria

Unlocking the Potential of Black Fonio Millet: Genetic Diversity and Nutritional Benefits for Sustainable Agriculture in Nigeria

Illustrative Image: Unlocking the Potential of Black Fonio Millet: Genetic Diversity and Nutritional Benefits for Sustainable Agriculture in Nigeria Image Source & Credit: FAO Ownership and...
Optimal Sesame Cultivation: Why Sole Cropping Outperforms Intercropping with Maize, Soya Bean, and Cowpea in Nigeria’s Guinea Savanna

Optimal Sesame Cultivation: Why Sole Cropping Outperforms Intercropping with Maize, Soya Bean, and Cowpea in Nigeria’s Guinea Savanna

Illustrative Image: Optimal Sesame Cultivation: Why Sole Cropping Outperforms Intercropping with Maize, Soya Bean, and Cowpea in Nigeria’s Guinea Savanna Image Source & Credit: MDPI Ownership...
Frequent Weeding Boosts Maize and Groundnut Yields: New Study Highlights Optimal Timing for Sustainable Crop Productivity in Nigeria

Frequent Weeding Boosts Maize and Groundnut Yields: New Study Highlights Optimal Timing for Sustainable Crop Productivity in Nigeria

Illustrative Image: Frequent Weeding Boosts Maize and Groundnut Yields: New Study Highlights Optimal Timing for Sustainable Crop Productivity in Nigeria Image Source & Credit: Marion...
Critical Review of Social Policy’s Role in Peacebuilding in MENA: Why It Matters but Isn’t Enough for Lasting Stability

Critical Review of Social Policy’s Role in Peacebuilding in MENA: Why It Matters but Isn’t Enough for Lasting Stability

A recent study by Jawad et al. (2025) titled "A critical review of the state-of-the-art on social policy, conflict and peace in the Middle...
How Nigerian Retailers Use Cryptocurrency for Cross-Border Trade with China: A Sociotechnical Perspective on Crypto Adoption in Developing Economies

How Nigerian Retailers Use Cryptocurrency for Cross-Border Trade with China: A Sociotechnical Perspective on Crypto Adoption in Developing Economies

Illustrative Image: How Nigerian Retailers Use Cryptocurrency for Cross-Border Trade with China: A Sociotechnical Perspective on Crypto Adoption in Developing Economies Image Source & Credit:...
New Fixed Point Approximations with C-Class Akram and Generalized MJ Contractions: Advances in Metric Space Theory and Iterative Convergence

New Fixed Point Approximations with C-Class Akram and Generalized MJ Contractions: Advances in Metric Space Theory and Iterative Convergence

Illustrative Image: New Fixed Point Approximations with C-Class Akram and Generalized MJ Contractions: Advances in Metric Space Theory and Iterative Convergence Image Source &...
Inquiry-Based Teaching Boosts Geometry Learning: Study Shows Improved Student Understanding, Performance, and Attitudes

Inquiry-Based Teaching Boosts Geometry Learning: Study Shows Improved Student Understanding, Performance, and Attitudes

Illustrative Image: Inquiry-Based Teaching Boosts Geometry Learning: Study Shows Improved Student Understanding, Performance, and Attitudes Image Source & Credit: nature.com Ownership and Usage Policy A recent study...
HIV Among Older Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa: New Study Reveals High Prevalence, Key Risk Factors, and Urgent Policy Gaps

HIV Among Older Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa: New Study Reveals High Prevalence, Key Risk Factors, and Urgent Policy Gaps

Illustrative Image: HIV Among Older Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa: New Study Reveals High Prevalence, Key Risk...

We are hiring !

About The Author

AR Managing Editor
AR Managing Editor
African Researchers Magazine (ISSN: 2714-2787) - your premier source for latest African research, science and scholarly news

Share Your Research Findings

- Advertisment -

Most Popular