28.02.13
Challenge 2050 published for rail industry
The European rail sector has published its high-level, long-term vision for the future with ‘Challenge 2050’.
It calls for the European rail industry to achieve a multi-fold increase in its share of passenger and freight markets, be more responsive to passenger needs, to deliver co-modal mobility, be world-leading, and provide sustainable mobility, economic growth and social cohesion.
By 2050, rail should be central to the delivery of a strategy delivering a “massive cut” in greenhouse gas emissions and reduced oil dependency, while also mitigating congestion.
The report aims to guide the transport sector, policy makers and other stakeholders to enable innovation and investment. It identifies business challenges and commits to addressing them whilst encouraging the delivery of a business-led vision for the whole sector.
Challenge 2050 has been endorsed by a number of major stakeholders, including UITP, UNIFE and ERRAC.
It takes account of the European Commission’s 2011 White Paper on Transport and is anticipated to focus development of ideas for future innovation through the EU Framework Programme ‘Horizon 2020’ either as direct projects or via ERRAC and its RailRoute 2050 and the FOSTERRAIL project.
The report states: “Rail is vital to the well-being of Europe’s society and the strength of its economy. To maintain and develop this role in the future, the sector has identified the significant challenges that it needs to meet to protect the social, economic and environmental fabric of society and develop rail as a transport mode.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]
Image c. www.freeimages.co.uk