Local measures to encourage the widespread uptake of low emission vehicles: learning from the UK and global good practice

Abstract

A range of local assets and powers can be harnessed to encourage the take up of low emission vehicles. These typically fall outside the direct control of national governments, being managed by local authorities and linked local and regional actors from both the public and private sector. This paper discusses the major findings from a recent project to understand the measures available to local authorities in the United Kingdom to encourage the use of low emission vehicles. The project developed a framework guidance document to support the planning and implementation of local measures and coordinate actions to avoid a patchwork of approaches being adopted by local authorities across the UK. The framework has been developed through interviews, surveys and a comprehensive review of measures being implemented in the UK, North America and across Europe. This considers measures that have been successful, had limited impact and which hold significant promise. It also recognises the need to consider unique local conditions and the priorities of individual local authorities in implementing such measures. The study also investigated major barriers and provided insights as to how these may be removed or overcome. Measures considered in the study include: access to priority lanes, planning and development frameworks, infrastructure provision, parking, taxis, car sharing and procurement. A number of different measures have been identified in each of these areas with corresponding recommendations for implementation and examples of good practice.