People are urged to have their say on a new decarbonisation strategy for transport in the North.
The first time a regional strategy of this type has been produced, it sets out ambitious targets for near-zero surface transport carbon by 2045.
The strategy has been put together by Transport for the North, which said it brought together the region’s leaders to speak out with one voice on the climate emergency.
Surface transport is the largest contributing sector to greenhouse gas emissions in the UK – accounting for 22 per cent of all emissions in 2019.
It said 95 per cent is from road transport, so opportunities around electric and alternative fuel vehicles were a key part of the developing strategy.
Among the potential actions and areas of focus the strategy considers are:
- Zero emission vehicles, including cars, HGVs and buses, with a comprehensive network of charging facilities to support their wider use
- The decarbonisation of the rail network through electrification
- The use of hydrogen and alternative fuel vehicles
- Encouraging modal shift towards more sustainable ways of travelling, such as public transport and active travel
- Opportunities for decarbonisation in the freight industry
- Carbon reduction when projects are built, as well as carbon capture
Tim Wood, interim chief executive at Transport for the North, said: “Reducing carbon across our region’s transport network is an essential part of tackling the climate emergency – one of the greatest challenges of our time.
“We’re thrilled to be consulting a strategy for the whole region that outlines how rapid progress can be made and how the North can lead the UK in slashing carbon emissions.
“There is a clear and urgent need to decarbonise our vehicles and roads over the coming years.
“But we must also take action on our rail network, with a rolling programme of electrification, and encourage a shift to more sustainable forms of transport and construction practices too.
“Our strategy is a vital piece of work in moving the North of England towards the ambitious goal of near-zero carbon emissions from surface transport by 2045.
“Using data and insights, alongside predictions and modelling analysis, the strategy sets out the challenges and opportunities ahead, providing a clear trajectory that will not only lower emissions, but also enhance connectivity for our region’s people and businesses.
“We urge everyone in Cumbria to get involved in this vital work and provide their views to the consultation, helping to shape future transport networks that are not only efficient and reliable, but are sustainable too.”
Visit www.transportforthenorth.com/decarbonisation for more information.
