Transport accounts for for 36 per cent of the total greenhouse gas emissions in Scotland. Private car use is the principle source, representing 39 per cent of transport emissions.

Urban Foresight was commissioned by Scotland’s largest regional transport partnership to create a low carbon roadmap for Strathclyde. This comprehensive roadmap identifies drivers for change and sets recommendations to accelerate the uptake of low carbon modes over the next 10 to 15 years. 

Priorities are set across vehicle types, including cars, vans, buses, coaches, and HGVs. The opportunities and challenges for active travel and mass rollout of alternative fuels such as hydrogen are also considered. 

Urban Foresight’s approach involved mapping the transport landscape to understand the current state of decarbonisation and to forecast future demand for EVs and corresponding charging infrastructure. Detailed profiles were developed for each of Strathclyde’s local authorities to develop projections of the infrastructure and power required across the region.

Our analysis was underpinned by widespread engagement with stakeholders across the region. This characterised the the social, economic, and environmental aspects of the region’s transition. It also highlighted the need for cross-sector collaboration, especially between major and smaller transport operators. 

This study has shown how strengthening the regional policy approach is an effective component to enabling an inclusive and accessible transition, which may further Strathclyde’s leadership in innovating for decarbonised road transport.

Image credit: Euan Cameron