Scotland Faces Uphill Battle to Meet 2030 Car Use Reduction Goals

Scotland is projected to struggle in achieving its ambitious 2030 climate target to reduce car use by 20%, according to a recent report by Audit Scotland and the Accounts Commission. The report indicates that since the pledge was made five years ago, progress has been minimal due to a lack of leadership and coordination. Key findings highlight the absence of a clear delivery plan, measurable milestones, and effective monitoring systems, raising doubts about the government’s commitment to this objective. Current car usage needs to drop by 7.3 billion kilometers, reverting to levels last seen in 1994, in order to meet the goal.

The Scottish government set this target amidst a climate emergency declared in 2019, aiming for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. However, various policies aimed at reducing car dependency have been fragmented and lacked coherence, making effective changes challenging and potentially unpopular. Criticism has also emerged from opposition parties, describing the government’s strategy as incoherent and ineffective, particularly criticizing the state of public transport under SNP leadership.

Transport Scotland pledged to consider the report’s recommendations, emphasizing the need for cross-party support to enhance public transport and alternative travel solutions. Moving forward, it remains uncertain whether the government will reassess its strategies and effectively tackle the barriers preventing a shift away from car use.