Source: Cycling Industry News

A UK shared transport charity has issued a response to the Account Commission’s recent assessment on the progress of Scotland’s sustainable transport initiatives.

The Commission’s findings suggest that the Scottish Government is “unlikely” to meet its ambitious target of reducing car kilometres driven by 20% by 2030, and lacks a clear plan to achieve this goal.

Richard Dilks, Chief Executive of CoMoUK (Collaborative Mobility UK), expressed disappointment at these findings, stating that they were unsurprising given the absence of a concrete strategy to support the Scottish Government’s admirable target. He emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, noting that the time lost without a comprehensive action plan was concerning. However, Dilks remained optimistic that, with the right measures, significant progress could still be made.

Increased car use surpassing active mobility growth

The report also highlights a concerning trend of increased car use in Scotland following the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with a decline in public transport usage. Despite efforts to promote active travel, such as walking and cycling, the pace of growth in these areas has not been sufficient to offset the rebound in car use. This shift underscores the need for more sustainable transportation alternatives.

CoMoUK recommendations for promoting sustainable transportation in Scotland

CoMoUK believes that expanding shared transport services could help mitigate this issue. Dilks pointed out that initiatives like shared bike schemes and car clubs could reduce the demand for private car use, making short trips more accessible and environmentally friendly. Such schemes, he explained, not only contribute to lower carbon emissions and less congestion but also offer substantial physical and mental health benefits for users.

In response to the challenges identified in the report, CoMoUK has called for an increase in shared transport schemes, including the expansion of car clubs and bike-sharing programs. Dilks further proposed that Scotland could lead the UK by creating a comprehensive network of mobility hubs. These hubs would facilitate seamless integration between various modes of transport, including shared transport, public transit, and active travel options, creating a more interconnected and sustainable transportation system.

CoMoUK’s comments underscore the critical need for coordinated action to achieve Scotland’s sustainability goals. While the challenges remain significant, the charity’s response suggests that innovative solutions such as shared transport can play a key role in addressing the current gaps and moving towards a more sustainable future.