Comparative analysis of environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, transportation, and road safety among Colombia, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil

Abstract

The comparative study shows that achieving sustainable urban mobility and strengthening road safety in Latin America requires a comprehensive strategy in which police training plays an essential role. For this purpose, the Integrated Regional Safety and Sustainability Index (IRISS) was used, which simultaneously evaluates environmental sustainability, infrastructure development, and safe transportation in Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia. The findings show that Chile and Argentina have implemented robust policies, such as Vision Zero and Alcohol Zero, supported by cycling infrastructure and extensive breathalyzer controls. Meanwhile, Colombia and Brazil have made progress in environmental education for police forces and in clean mobility programs; however, they still face major challenges, including road fatality rates exceeding 15 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants and limited coverage of sustainable infrastructure. The study concludes that it is essential to incorporate environmental education into police training, modernize regulations, and maintain constant investments in clean and safe transportation to reduce road accidents and move towards mobility models that are environmentally responsible.