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Transport system needs ‘transformation’ to reach net zero, study suggests


By PA News



A “transformation” of the transport system will be needed to reach net zero, according to the Scottish Government’s draft just transition plan for the sector.

Transport accounts for the largest proportion (32%) of Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions, reflecting the fact that most forms of travel remain largely dependent on fossil fuels.

The Draft Just Transition Plan for Transport in Scotland aims to identify the key challenges and opportunities the transport sector faces in making a just transition to a net zero transport system by 2045.

Targets already set include a commitment to a 20% reduction in car use by 2030, that 30% of Scottish Government-owned ferries should be low emission by 2032, and that scheduled flights between Scottish airports should be decarbonised by 2040.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the consultation offers people the opportunity to have their say (Jane Barlow/PA)
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the consultation offers people the opportunity to have their say (Jane Barlow/PA)

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has urged people to take part in the public consultation on the draft plan, which closes on May 19.

She said: “Tackling the climate emergency is a key priority for this Government and transport remains Scotland’s largest source of emissions.

“While we have achieved much, we know that challenges remain and, critically, of the need to meet those challenges in a way that is fair and just.”

Ms Hyslop added: “What I know people and communities are asking for is more affordable, available and accessible public transport services across Scotland.

“It’s also important to recognise the inequalities that affect people’s use of transport, for example, the fact that many of our rural communities are more reliant on car use.

“We’re working hard to address these issues and our latest consultation is another important opportunity for people, communities and businesses to have their say and to shape our future policy, whether on skills for the future or transport services within communities.”

The report predicts that the size of Scotland’s transport workforce will remain relatively stable, with the potential for job losses up to 2045, but also also the potential for new jobs to be created.

The aims set out in the plan include that the net-zero transition should support new and existing well-paid jobs across Scotland, within transport services, supply chains and in the wider economy.

Transport is a really critical sector for reducing Scotland’s emissions
Prof Dave Reay and Satwat Rehman, JTC

Transport options should be affordable and the transition to decarbonised travel should not place a disproportionate burden on those with the least choice and ability to pay, according to the plan.

It states that achieving net zero will “require a transformation in our transport system, and the ways in which we all travel.”

The report adds: “There will need to be a major shift in the vehicles and fuels we use, in our transport and energy infrastructure, and in the transport skills that people learn and deploy.”

The draft plan identifies 16 outcomes covering four priority areas: jobs, skills and economic; communities and places; people and equity; adaptation, biodiversity and environment.

In a statement, the co-chairs of the Just Transition Commission (JTC), Professor Dave Reay and Satwat Rehman, said: “Transport is a really critical sector for reducing Scotland’s emissions.

“If the required changes are to be delivered as fairly as possible, we need to see clear and credible plans that support public understanding of what needs to happen and why.

“The Just Transition Commission will continue to provide independent scrutiny and advice on this draft plan in the coming months.”

Scottish Conservative transport spokeswoman Sue Webber said: “The SNP’s only answer to try and mask their appalling transport failures is to wage yet another war on the motorist.

“This latest talking shop features a raft of policies that will deeply concern car users across Scotland.

“Ministers appear hellbent on using motorists as a cash cow by once again mooting extra charges and are intent on making their lives difficult by talking about reducing the size of parking spaces.

“They still don’t understand that their failure to deliver reliable and affordable public transport services means many simply do not see that as an option to travel.”

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