The document discusses air pollution and transportation issues in Latin America. It notes that the transportation sector is the largest source of air pollution in most Latin American cities. Air pollution levels exceed WHO standards for over 100 million people in the region and cost Latin American countries 1-2% of GDP in health impacts. Traffic congestion is among the worst in the world in cities like Sao Paulo and Mexico City, costing billions annually in lost time and productivity. Regional cooperation through projects like the GEF Sustainable Transport and Air Quality Program aim to reduce emissions and improve air quality through sustainable transportation planning.

1. A Regional Perspective from Latin America Sergio Sanchez The Clean Air Institute Washington DC February 15, 2008

7. Public transport share is diminishing Source: Fulton & Wright City Earlier year Public transport as a percentage of motorzied trips Last year Public transport as a percentage of motorzied trips Bangkok 1970 53 1990 39 Buenos Aires 1993 49 1999 33 Kuala Lumpur 1985 34 1997 19 Mexico City 1984 80 1994 72 Moscow 1990 87 1997 83 Sao Paulo 1977 46 1997 33 Seoul 1970 67 1992 61 Tokyo 1970 65 1990 48 Shanghai 1986 24 1995 15 Warsaw 1987 80 1998 53

11. Regional GEF Sustainable Transport and Air Quality Program Regional Project Assessment of Transport Interventions, Technical Assistance and Training, Policy development, Supporting Monitoring and Evaluation Mexico Project Integrated Land Use Transport Planning Freight Management Public Transport Improvement Non-Motorized Transport Demand Management Brazil Project Argentina Project

12. Municipalities, national governments, private sector businesses, international development organizations, universities, professional associations, social community organizations, communities and individuals Working together to improve air quality, mitigate climate change and enhance quality of life