The role of public transport in achieving net-zero targets

Transportation is pivotal in the journey to achieve net-zero targets by 2030 and beyond, according to the annual report released by the Climate Change Committee on 18th July 2024.

As one of the largest emitters of carbon emissions in the UK, the transport industry holds significant potential for improvement. While some progress has been made, much more needs to be done to meet climate goals.

Graphic image showing a world with stickers of a red bus, CO2 in a cloud with an arrow pointing down and the numbers 2030. To signify that public transport is pivotal in achieving net-zero targets.

Current trends and challenges to in transport

Surface transport, encompassing travel by road, train or ship, has shown mixed trends in the last year.

Total car kilometres travelled

Kilometres travelled by car have rebounded from pandemic lows but remain 6% below pre-pandemic levels, likely due to increased home working. While this indicates progress, there is a risk that demand could rise again without supportive policies.

Total sales of new electric cars

Electric car sales have continued to grow, with one million cumulative sales reached in January 2024. However, the report notes that electric cars’ market share stagnated in 2023, signalling a need for accelerated adoption to meet targets.

Installation of charging infrastructure

On a brighter note, the expansion of charging infrastructure by more than a third in 2023 aligns with the trajectory needed to support widespread electric vehicle use.

How public transport plays a key part in achieving net-zero

Public transport plays a huge part in reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.

Reducing vehicle emissions

Public transport can significantly reduce the number of private vehicles on the road. Fewer cars mean lower emissions. For instance, a full double decker bus can replace up to 75 cars, reducing congestion and pollution.

Energy efficiency

Buses and trains are more energy-efficient per passenger kilometre than private cars. By investing in electric or hybrid buses, cities can further cut down on greenhouse gas emissions.

Encouraging sustainable travel options

Convenient and reliable public transport encourages people to choose sustainable travel options over driving. Features like real-time information, mobile ticketing and seamless journey planning enhances the user experience, making public transport a more attractive option.

UrbanThings technology and how it can help

At UrbanThings, we believe in the transformative power of public transport. Our solutions, such as our passenger app and website, are designed to enhance the public transport experience and encourage more people to make the switch from private cards to sustainable travel options. Features include:

Real-time information that enhances the reliability and attractiveness of public transport, encouraging more people to choose buses over private cars
Advanced journey planning engine that can prioritise walking and cycling routes and provide information on CO2 emissions
Mobile ticketing eliminating the need for physical tickets or cash, reducing paper waste and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and distributing physical tickets
Custom notifications and alerts delivered to passengers about service updates and delays improving communications and allowing them to make informed decisions about their travel plans, preventing passengers from opting for less efficient travel methods in response to unexpected delays

By prioritising public transport and investing in innovative technologies, we can make strides towards our net-zero targets and create a more sustainable future for all.

Reference: Progress in reducing emissions 2024 Report to Parliament (18 July 2024) Climate Change Committee. Available at: https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/progress-in-reducing-emissions-2024-report-to-parliament/#post-48594-_Toc171525140 (Accessed: 19 July 2024).

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