24 June 2009
Smarter Ways Forward
New report shows how small-scale, local transport measures can reduce congestion and emissions
A new report published today (Wednesday 24th) sets out the impact that small-scale, local transport measures can make in reducing congestion and emissions. The new report 'Smarter Ways Forward', published by the Transform Scotland Trust, [1] concludes that while there is already considerable activity across Scotland in implementing 'Smarter Choices' measures, [2] that there is a clear need for greater support and guidance from central, regional and local government.
Amongst other things, the report found that Smarter Choices are popular across Scottish local authorities, and in rural as well as urban areas. However, measures with a ready framework for implementation (e.g. car sharing schemes) or which received central government funding (workplace travel plans & school travel plans) are most popular.
Professor Stephen Stradling, Chair of the Transform Scotland Trust, said: [3]
"Research shows that many car users are ready, willing and able to cut their car use. People need to hear the reasons for change, but they also need practical support, help and advice on how to make the change in as easy and painless a way as possible and how to fit the changes into their life.
"Smarter Choices measures are an important tool in tackling congestion and reducing climate change emissions. Their relatively low cost of implementation, combined with a high rate of return, means that Smarter Choices provide an economically viable way to reduce reliance on carbon-intensive modes of transport.
"Workplace and school travel plans and car sharing schemes are already in widespread use across Scotland, and are recognised as a key component in transport strategies to reduce car dependence. But the use of other Smarter Choices measures - such as car clubs and the use of conferencing technology - need to be expanded if we are to hit national targets for stabilising road traffic levels and reducing emissions from the transport sector."
The report is available at <http://www.transformscotland.org.uk/GetFile.aspx?ItemId=178>.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
[1] The Transform Scotland Trust
The Transform Scotland Trust was established to carry out research and educate the public about transport's impact on the economy, environment, and society as a whole. The Trust is chaired by Stephen Stradling, Professor of Transport Psychology at Napier University's Transport Research Institute. See <http://www.transformscotland.org.uk/tst.aspx>.
[2] Smarter Choices
'Smarter Choices'is the term used to cover a range of techniques and measures designed to help people become less car dependent, and encourage them to use more sustainable modes of transport. Interventions promoted under Smarter Choices include:
* Workplace travel plans
* School travel plans
* Personalised travel plans
* Public transport information
* Travel awareness campaigns
* Car clubs
* Car sharing schemes
* Teleworking
* Teleconferencing
* Home shopping.
[3] Prof. Stephen Stradling
See <http://www.napier.ac.uk/fhlss/HSS/Staff/Pages/Stephen_Stradling.aspx> for biography of Prof. Stephen Stradling.
[4] Parliamentary briefing
The report will be presented to MSPs at an event being held in the Scottish Parliament on the evening of Wednesday 24th June. The event is being hosted by Patrick Harvie MSP, Convener of the Parliament's Transport, Infrastructure and Climate Change Committee.
END OF NEWS RELEASE