The UK paves the way for a zero-emission transport system

The British Government has laid out an ambitious strategy for the decarbonisation of its transport system to fight the climate crisis, through a report published by the Department of Transport (DfT).

The report departs from the premise that “Public transport and active travel will be the natural first choice for our daily activities. We will use our cars less and be able to rely on a convenient, cost-effective and coherent public transport network”, as stated by the transport minister Grant Shapps.  The document includes several clues on how to actively contribute to a zero-emission transport system. With regard to the recent impetus toward electric vehicles, the report highlights the use of concrete actions such as research in battery technology development, including recycling, charging infrastructure and inquiring into the behavioural dimensions of usage which may have hindered take-up of the technology.

As for buses and coaches, these represented 3% of domestic transport GHG emissions, but there are no associated emissions targets established by the government. However, DfT recommends that traditionally-fuelled buses are replaced by zero-emission vehicles as quickly as possible.

Cycling and walking are cornerstones of this plan, as the original zero-emission modes of transport, with the DfT announcing the setup of a £350m Cycling Infrastructure Fund to increase investment in cycling and active travel. DfT believes that a committed budget for this purpose can reduce the total car use in England by around 0.9% this year alone.

The vision has been described by campaigners as unprecedented, pulling no punches in the effort and resources to materialise such grand ambitions. Xavier Brice, the chief executive of walking and cycling charity Sustrans, states that ‘’It will help make active travel the easiest choice for everyday short trips. And deliver a convenient, cleaner public transport network serving all our communities”.