A just transition for Scotland’s transport sector

The Scottish Government has published its Draft Just Transition Plan for Transport in Scotland. Building on Scotland’s existing National Transport Strategy, the new report seeks to identify the key challenges and opportunities our transport sector faces in making a just transition to a net zero transport system by 2045.

The decarbonisation of the sector offers significant benefits in terms of protecting the environment, improving health outcomes and growing the economy. Realising these benefits in a way which is fair is key to the Scottish Government’s approach.

A public consultation has now been launched to seek views on the draft plan, empowering people share their views on the action that is required to ensure that no one is left behind as our transport sector transforms. The consultation closes on 19 May.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:

“I’m pleased that the Draft Just Transition Plan for Transport has now been published. Tackling the climate emergency is a key priority for this government and transport remains Scotland’s largest source of emissions. While we have achieved much, we know that challenges remain – and critically, of the need to meet those challenges in a way that is fair and just.

“We now have 450 miles of new or improved walking or cycling paths when compared to 2010. We have supported the acquisition of 800 zero emission buses – attracting in vital private sector investment. We’re approaching 200 million free bus journeys made by under 22s across Scotland. 76% of passenger journeys in Scotland are now electrified, ScotRail has been brought into public ownership, and six new stations have opened up across Scotland since 2020. With support from private industry, we reached our target for over 6000 public electric vehicle charge points more than two years ahead of schedule. These are all incredibly encouraging steps which are helping to eradicate child poverty, tackle the climate emergency and grow the economy.

“What I know people and communities are asking for is more affordable, available and accessible public transport services across Scotland. It’s also important to recognise the inequalities that affect people’s use of transport – for example, the fact that many of our rural communities are more reliant on car use. We’re working hard to address these issues – and our latest consultation is another important opportunity for people, communities and businesses to have their say and to shape our future policy – whether on skills for the future or transport services within communities. Please take part in our consultation and help ensure everyone can benefit from a just transition to a net zero transport system.”

Acting Minister for Climate Action Alasdair Allan said:

“The publication of the Draft Just Transition Plan for Transport is a welcome step in ensuring everyone understands and plays their part in our just transition to a net zero transport system – and to a net zero nation more widely.

“Put simply – a just transition means ensuring that the costs and benefits of net zero – including the economic opportunities – are shared fairly. No one can be left behind as we move to decarbonise Scotland.

“This publication supports our important just transition work in other sectors of the Scottish economy. I’m grateful to everyone who has helped develop the draft plan to this point and encourage anyone with an interest to have their say by 19 May. In particular, I am grateful for the Just Transition Commission’s continued engagement and advice to the Scottish Government on the development of the Draft Plan. ”

The Just Transition Commission’s co-chairs, Professor Dave Reay and Satwat Rehman said:

“We welcome today’s publication by the Scottish Government of a draft just transition plan for transport. Transport is a really critical sector for reducing Scotland’s emissions. If the required changes are to be delivered as fairly as possible, we need to see clear and credible plans that support public understanding of what needs to happen and why. The Just Transition Commission will continue to provide independent scrutiny and advice on this draft plan in the coming months.”