Energy consumption in transport in Great Britain: Macro level estimates

Abstract

Transport has continued to increase its consumption of nonrenewable energy resources and to emit substantial levels of pollutants despite various attempts to limit that growth. This paper takes the two main sources of national travel data from Great Britain and subjects it to a comprehensive transport and energy-based analysis to establish the links between travel patterns, vehicle occupancy, modes used, and settlement type. The empirical evidence is presented together with interpretations on key factors in the linkages between transport and settlement patterns. Energy efficiency in transport could be increased substantially through higher vehicle occupancy levels, but as trips have become more frequent, dispersed, and longer, this option may be limited. This conclusion needs to be further researched together with the changes in demographic, work, and settlement patterns all of which are likely to compound the trends toward a continuation of the growth patterns in energy consumption in transport.