A sustainable transportation system is one that:

• "Allows the basic access needs of individuals to be met safely and in a manner consistent with human and ecosystem health, and with equity within and between generations.

• Is affordable, operates efficiently, offers choice of transport mode, and supports a vibrant economy.

• Limits emissions and waste within the planet's ability to absorb them, minimizes consumption of non-renewable resources, limits consumption of renewable resources to the sustainable yield level, reuses and recycles its components, and minimizes the use of land and the production of noise."

- Centre for Sustainable Transportation, October 2002