UN Backs FIATA–GSCC joint initiative for the decade of sustainable transport

The United Nations (UN) has officially accepted the joint submission titled “Global Sustainability Supply Chain Student Competition and Leadership Education Initiative: Building Youth Capacity for Sustainable Transport” as a formal commitment to the newly launched UN Decade of Sustainable Transport (2026–2035). The initiative was submitted collaboratively by the Global Supply Chain Classroom (GSCC), FIATA, the International Center for Transport Diplomacy (ICTD), and the UN Group of Friends of Sustainable Transport.

This recognition places the initiative among more than 80 commitments selected worldwide to support the UN’s goal of accelerating the transition to low-carbon, resilient, safe, and inclusive transport systems. The commitments were released on 10 December to coincide with the Decade’s official launch at UN Headquarters in New York.

At the centre of the commitment is the Global Sustainability Supply Chain Student Competition (GS3), a programme empowering university students around the world to develop data-driven, practical, and innovative solutions to sustainability challenges in transport and logistics.

“Engaging the next generation of logistics professionals is essential to advancing the ambitions of the UN Decade of Sustainable Transport,” said Wanda Li, Executive Director of GSCC, who attended the launch event. “GS3 bridges the gap between academia and industry, equipping future leaders with the skills needed to deliver real-world sustainable solutions.”

FIATA Director General Dr Stéphane Graber commented:
“FIATA is proud to contribute to the Voluntary Commitments of the United Nations Decade of Sustainable Transport through the GS3 Competition. This initiative reflects our dedication to supporting the young generation and encouraging its active engagement in the logistics industry. New talent brings valuable ideas and fresh energy at a time when our sector is being reshaped by digitalization and sustainability. Their perspectives will help guide the transformation ahead and ensure that our industry continues to move forward with confidence.”

Key Components of the Initiative:

• Global Reach & Impact: Since 2022, GS3 has engaged nearly 300 student teams from 75 universities in 30 territories across 6 continents.
• Academia-Industry Collaboration: FIATA facilitates direct connections between industrial members worldwide and GSCC’s network of universities. Through real-world case studies provided by partners such as the World Bank and leading logistics companies, students tackle real challenges related to decarbonization, digitalization, and social inclusion. TWTH Express Inc., a FIATA Member, provided scholarships to help winning teams attend the educational tour and award ceremony during the 2025 FIATA Headquarters (HQ) Meeting in Geneva, at the heart of a global hub for logistics and trade policy.
• Talent Development for Developing Territories: In collaboration with the Global Sustainable Transport Innovation and Knowledge Center (GSTIKC) and the Global Sustainable Transport Innovation Alliance (GSTIA), the initiative includes a pilot Global Sustainable Transport Leadership Program, offering internships and field visits, particularly supporting young professionals from developing countries.
• Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals: The initiative advances multiple SDGs by promoting youth empowerment, integrating sustainability into higher education, and fostering international collaboration across the transport and logistics sectors.

Acceptance of this initiative highlights the international community’s recognition of the essential role that youth play in creating a just, low-carbon, and sustainable global transport future.