The conceptual evolution and current development of sustainable transportation:a review
SUN Yi
HUANG Jianchang
YU Lei
Abstract：In the context of global warming and resource scarcity,promoting sustainable transportation is a vital component of the green transformation of socio-economic systems.Yet,no universal consensus has been reached on the definition of sustainable transportation,and systematic reviews of its current development remain limited.This paper provides a comprehensive review of both the conceptual foundation and the current state of sustainable transportation.First,it traces the historical evolution of the concept.Second,it synthesized and compared definitions proposed by international organizations and national or regional authorities.Sustainable transportation is herein defined as an innovative development model that minimizes environmental impacts,such as carbon emissions,air pollutants,and noise,reduces energy consumption,and integrates economic growth,social well-being,traffic safety,and equity,thereby preserving resources and opportunities for future generations.Third,the research priorities of 16 leading international and national institutions in the field are systematically reviewed.Finally,current progress summarized in terms of six key technological advances and four developmental models,with major challenges and issues identified.The findings provide theoretical insights and strategic guidance for the future advancement of sustainable transportation.
Keywords：sustainable transportationconceptual definitioncurrent development statustechnological advancementdevelopment model
Publication Date：2026-01-31
Online Publishing Date：2026-05-22(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：13( 1-13 )