Abstract
Transport is a complex system, integral to national and international structure and without which society cannot function. At the same time, transport is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. In the UK a step change is required in the transport sector to achieve the legally binding reduction targets of the Climate Change Act 2008. Following the UK government’s 2013 review of carbon dioxide emissions from infrastructure, this paper looks at the country’s present and projected transport emissions in the context of the transport status quo and plans for growth. It argues there is an urgent need to rebalance the transport modal mix, with all modes integrated into a seamless transport system with smart interfacing between them. Drivers for behavioural change are also essential.
Highlights
In 2013 the UK government’s Green Construction Board published a report called Infrastructure Carbon Review (GCB, 2013)
In the context of infrastructure, mobility can be seen as a utility, with decisions to be made on the optimum modal mix and coordination
Emissions reduction must take centre stage in the Treasury’s assessments of infrastructure investment in the UK, in line with the traditional economic metrics. It is less than 10 years from the fast-approaching 2025 and its interim targets
Summary
In 2013 the UK government’s Green Construction Board published a report called Infrastructure Carbon Review (GCB, 2013). It was a seminal point in the construction industry’s initiative to lowering the greenhouse gas emissions (measured in carbon dioxide equivalent emissions) of UK infrastructure. Transport is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as, ‘a system for carrying people or goods from one place to another’ It is a critical component of economic development, globally and nationally. It provides access to a wider market, adding to economies of scale in production, specialisation, distribution and consumption It is essential for geographical and social inclusion, spreading prosperity and encouraging development. If the underlying vision of government is for continuing national prosperity and growth, it has to ensure that the national and international transport system is fit for purpose, providing connectivity that is efficient, socially enhancing and environmentally positive
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