Integrating information and communication technology as a solution to sustainable road transportation in South Africa

Abstract

Initiatives have long been taken to attain sustainable road transportation system across the world, including South Africa. Despite the various initiatives, sustainable road transportation in South African cities remains as a challenge. Therefore, this study, through a qualitative study, examined how sustainable road transportation can be achieved in South African cities. It is found that strengthening of public transportation system and effective integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in socio-economic activities, and travel needs in particular, would be able to contribute significantly to sustainable road transportation. ICT Integration and its effective use will reduce need for travel, reduce traffic volume, and enable appropriate route planning, which consequently will reduce traffic congestion, traffic collisions, travel distance and travel time. It will also limit environmental pollution caused by carbon emissions from vehicles, thus contributing to sustainable road transportation.