European Shippers’ Council (ESC) attended the 53rd European Transport Conference (ETC 2025, organised by the Association for European Transport), held on 17-19 September 2025 under the timely and forward-looking theme: “Providing Mobility and Access for Current and Future Generations.” Bringing together experts from policy, research, and industry, the conference offered a vital platform to explore transport challenges and opportunities amidst the climate emergency, global instability, and economic uncertainty.
ESC actively contributed to discussions, with a particular focus on sessions addressing emission calculation and sustainable transport. These sessions highlighted the growing importance of accurate emissions tracking, reliable data, and the development of harmonised methodologies that support compliance with European climate targets. ESC reiterated the necessity for practical solutions that allow shippers to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising operational efficiency or competitiveness.
Throughout the conference, a shared concern was evident among participants: how to ensure that transport systems remain inclusive, resilient, efficient, and affordable in an increasingly complex world. The challenge of providing equitable access to mobility while managing limited financial and energy resources emerged as a key theme, alongside the need to make better use of technology, including Artificial Intelligence and digital twins, to inform planning and decision-making.
ESC underlined the essential role of freight transport in Europe’s economic and environmental future and advocated for policies that reflect the realities faced by the shipping and logistics industries. Discussions also explored how to improve adaptability and resilience in transport systems, develop healthy and safe urban environments, and strengthen the planner’s toolkit with innovative modelling and decision-support tools.
As a long-time supporter of collaborative, evidence-based policymaking, ESC continues to promote the alignment of sustainable transport strategies with the real needs of businesses, consumers, and the wider society. The conference reaffirmed the importance of dialogue between shippers, planners, researchers, and governments in ensuring that Europe’s transport systems serve both present demands and future generations.
European Shippers’ Council remains committed to supporting the development of smart, sustainable, and inclusive freight transport systems across Europe and welcomes the insights and partnerships fostered during ETC 2025 as a foundation for continued progress.