New research suggests that rural car dependency requires more attention if emissions are to be effectively tackled…
Rural Car Dependency
Rural car dependency is a significant contributor to emissions and is often overlooked. That’s the verdict of new research, conducted by the University of Hertfordshire. Led by Professor Stephen Joseph, it suggests that transport in cities and urban areas dominates discussion and debate; despite rural counties being responsible for nearly three-quarters (74%) of transport-related emissions.
In so-called ‘shire’ counties, cuts to public transport (especially bus routes) have led to a rise in single-occupancy car journeys. This leads to raised emissions per person, which is made worse still due to congestion in what are often villages and market towns. Whilst the coronavirus pandemic saw vehicular traffic fall significantly, the transport sector is still responsible for 29.8% of carbon emissions; meaning that it needs to be tackled as a part of broader climate action.
‘Not Inevitable’
Professor Stephen Joseph commented on the research. He said, “there is a tendency to think that people outside cities have to drive everywhere, but this leads to high emissions, gridlocked roads, and is isolating for those without their own vehicles.
He added, “this report concludes that car dependency isn’t inevitable and highlights ways this can be reduced in rural areas. Tackling car dependency will have a big impact on climate change. The Government should use their forthcoming Rural Mobility Strategy to better support transport services outside cities, and give councils and communities in those areas more help and funding”.
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