Transport accounts for the largest share of the UK’s carbon emissions, and though progress is being made on areas like energy and housing, trends in transport emissions reductions have stagnated. This is despite the modal shift after the pandemic with the rise of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and active travel schemes, as well as the rise in electric vehicles, both for private and publicly owned vehicles. 

Rural transport is no exception in this trend where unique barriers have prevented rural authorities from keeping pace with the progress seen in urban areas. Expansive rural areas and limited and expensive public transport limit inclusive, accessible options, making modal shift a Net Zero nut that is yet to be cracked. 

As a result, few national policies provide for rural low carbon transport. If we’re serious about tackling transport emissions, we need to have a serious conversation about decarbonising our rural roads.

This meeting of the Countryside Climate Network:

• Highlighted the challenges of rural low carbon transport and the importance of tackling this issue
• Showcased examples of best practice and discussed why these have worked, and how they can be replicated
• Explored what additional support is needed from national governments to decarbonise rural transport

Speakers:

• Professor Stephen Joseph, University of Hertfordshire
• Pooya Kamvari, HomeRun
• Cllr Annemieke Waite, North Somerset Council 

For further information about the network, email membership@uk100.org