Max Sugarman
Chief Executive, Intelligent Transport Systems UK
With transport responsible for more than a quarter of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, the sector will need to undertake major efforts to decarbonise, if we are to reach net zero by 2050.
The challenge comes as we look ahead to continued population growth, particularly in our cities, all while catering for higher demand for our transport and making our cities more sustainable.
Transport technology’s role in decarbonisation
Transport technology has a clear role to play in facing this challenge. More data is being produced from our transport network than ever before — across all modes of transport. That data is being used by transport authorities to better understand how the network is used and, increasingly, to promote different behaviours that have lower environmental impacts, such as the use of public transport.
The use of data and new technology has seen the rise of journey planning and Mobility as a Service (MaaS) apps. MaaS enables users to plan, book and pay for multi-modal transport via an app or website, promoting public transport over private vehicle ownership. UK trials include Future Transport Zones and private platforms.
Similarly, technology has transformed the micromobility sector, offering electric bike and e-scooter sharing schemes that provide an easy and accessible way for people to travel in a low-carbon way. These schemes over the past decade have blossomed across cities across the UK.
Technology must be part of the
solution to creating sustainable,
thriving low-carbon cities.
What needs to happen?
Technology must be part of the solution to creating sustainable, thriving low-carbon cities. Greater access to data, and greater data sharing across transport authorities and modes, will be essential. A focus on integration — as the Government is taking with its ‘Integrated National Transport Strategy’ — will be vital. For the micromobility sector, legislation to legalise e-scooters in a way that is safe and garners public support will be key.
Championing policy and industry changes
Intelligent Transport Systems UK plays a vital role in this transition by advocating for transport innovation through thought leadership, forums and events. By collaborating with public and private stakeholders, ITS UK champions the policy and industry changes needed to drive the adoption of technologies that will create smarter, greener cities.
