About the study

The CEC Secretariat's report will examine the environmental implications of freight transportation in North America and how regional action and cooperation on related policies, regulations, incentives and other measures can contribute to increase the efficiency, competitiveness, and environmental sustainability of the freight transportation system in North America.

Specifically, the report will look at:

• Rail and truck freight transportation, as well as on their connecting ports; and
• Greenhouse gases (GHGs) and energy consumption within the freight transportation sector, although other environmental aspects will be considered to the extent to which they benefit GHG reduction or result in potential trade-offs.

The report will discuss questions such as:

• What are the immediate, medium- and long-term problems and opportunities facing freight transport in North America and globally?
• What would an efficient, competitive and environmentally sustainable freight transport system for North America look like in 2030?
• What major initiatives are under way?
• What policy, market and social considerations must be addressed to achieve a sustainable freight transportation system in North America?

In addition to receiving guidance from an advisory group composed of transportation experts from the private and public sectors, the CEC Secretariat will seek public input through a trinational public comment and consultation process. Workshops and interviews with industry representatives, environmental NGOs and other stakeholders will contribute to scenarios for reducing GHG emissions related to truck and rail freight transportation through 2030.

The report will be developed pursuant to Article 13 of the North American Agreement on Environmental Cooperation (NAAEC). Article 13 allows the Secretariat to prepare a report for the Council on any matter within the scope of its annual program. The Secretariat may draw upon any relevant technical, scientific or other information and may use information gathered through public consultations, such as conferences, seminars and symposia.