Abstract:
The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of the transport sector have been recognised
as one of the most effective measures to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study
aims to conduct a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the NDCs of the transportation
sector in Sri Lanka to assess their effectiveness in achieving a low-carbon future. The first set
of NDCs was implemented by the Mahaweli Development and Environment Ministry in 2016
and was subsequently submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change. In July 2021, Sri Lanka updated its NDCs, reflecting its ongoing commitment to
combating climate change. This research aims to identify the gaps and limitations of current
policy and to plan strategies and recommend effective strategies to support the sector's
transition to a sustainable future. Through evaluation of the effectiveness of current NDCs, we
can provide information on the country's progress toward achieving its climate goals. This
research can provide valuable recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders to overcome
these challenges and promote sustainable development in the transport sector. To prioritise
NDCs, a set of criteria was developed based on research objectives and the specific needs of
the transportation sector. These criteria served as a framework for subsequent analysis. A
questionnaire survey was administered to gather information from transportation industry
professionals and the general public regarding NDCs. The collected data was analysed using
suitable statistical approaches, using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)
software as a tool. A list of essential NDCs for the transport sector was established using the
prioritised criteria and the feedback obtained from the questionnaire survey. This list served as
the basis for the subsequent evaluation and analysis of the identified NDCs. Finally,
conclusions were drawn based on the evaluation and analysis regarding the significance and
impact of the prioritised NDCs in the transportation sector. This study's results have helped
increase awareness of the complexity of emission assessments in the transportation industry
and have provided helpful information for planning and policy-making related to sustainable
transportation. This research can provide valuable recommendations to policymakers and
stakeholders to overcome these challenges and promote sustainable development in the Sri
Lankan transport sector. In conclusion, implementing the proposed enhancements for the
selected NDCs is crucial to effectively align Sri Lanka with the goals of the Paris Agreement
within the designated time frame. Sri Lanka is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate
change, underscoring the urgency and importance of taking decisive action. It is imperative to
prioritise and address the identified issues to mitigate risks, enhance resilience, and contribute
to global efforts in combating climate change. By proactively addressing these challenges, Sri
Lanka can create a sustainable and climate-resilient future.