Driving Sustainable Transport: Addressing Used Heavy-Duty Vehicles for a Greener Future

The HDVE sector is responsible for 23% of global black carbon emissions, to which diesel-powered vehicles and stationary engines contribute the most. In a recent study published by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the global sale of new and used heavy duty vehicles (HDVs) doubled between 2000 and 2015 alongside increased CO2 emissions accounting for a third in the same period. In 2015, about 2.9 million HDVs were sold globally in which Japan, the European Union, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, the United States of America, and China, were the major exporters, and Europe the, Asia-Pacific and notably, Africa, were the major receiving regions.

Used HDVs are more polluting than light-duty vehicles, yet regulations are often less strict or even non-existent. In many developing nations, minimum standards for cleaner, safer used HDVs are either missing entirely or poorly enforced. In countries where policies exist, weak enforcement worsens their impacts on communities and public health resulting in compromised air quality. Addressing these regulatory gaps is crucial for promoting cleaner, safer, and sustainable transportation systems.

UNEP and the CCAC are leading the implementation of low sulphur fuels and the adoption of cleaner HDV technologies in developing and transitional countries. For instance, in Paraguay, support has been provided for the development of a resolution to reduce SLCPs from HDVs. At the regional level, the African Union is also making actions in regulating imports of used HDVs.  

This webinar will share insights on the growing demand for used HDVs, their contribution to developing countries’ economies, and their significant impacts on air quality and climate change.  The webinar will also demonstrate how enhanced regulations can drive sustainable transport, lead to greater uptake of advanced technologies, and present case studies in the LAC and African regions.  

Meet the Speakers