The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) and Towards Zero Foundation have submitted a now-published T20 policy brief to support G20 leaders to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for road safety in their countries.
Road trauma is the largest killer of young people worldwide with more than 100,000 people killed or injured on roads each day. In G20 countries, road trauma costs an estimated USD1.8 trillion each year. More than 75% of travel for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists in G20 countries is on roads rated just 1-or 2-stars for safety.
UN Member States have agreed on 12 Global Road Safety Performance Targets that include ensuring all new roads are built to the 3-star or better global standard for all road users. Investment in 3-star or better road infrastructure for all road users will save lives, save money, create employment, and help G20 countries achieve SDG targets by 2030.
Unlocking the health system benefits from reduced road trauma can provide the foundation for public-private partnership investment in proven road safety interventions. Brazil and other countries are now demonstrating how innovative public and private results-based financing and impact investment can be mobilised to deliver 3-star or better outcomes for all road users.
Ensuring the 3-star or better global standard is met for all road users as part of all Overseas Development Assistance is also an essential part of delivering on the health, road safety, and climate agenda. An estimated 250,000 lives and 2,500,000 serious injuries will be saved every year if the 3-star or better UN Global Road Safety Performance Targets for infrastructure are met in G20 countries by 2030.
Business case for safer roads in G20 countries
Human Impact of Road Trauma in G20 countries
Star Rating of Roads in G20 countries
