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2030 Climate Target at Risk: Scotland Failing to Cut Car Use, Says Watchdog

Scotland's 2030 Car Use Reduction Target in Jeopardy: Minimal Progress and No Clear Plan

Scotland’s ambitious goal to reduce car use by 20% by 2030 appears increasingly unlikely to be met, according to a report from public spending watchdogs. Audit Scotland and the Accounts Commission have highlighted a lack of leadership, a failure to provide a clear plan, and minimal progress since the pledge was made five years ago. This raises concerns about the government’s ability to meet its broader climate commitments, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.

The Challenge: A Lofty Target with Little Progress

The Scottish government set out to decrease car kilometres driven by 7.3 billion, bringing traffic levels down to 1994 figures. However, according to the report, the government has not provided a costed delivery plan, measurable milestones, or sufficient monitoring mechanisms to track progress. The absence of coordination between policies has further hindered efforts, making it unclear whether the government remains committed to its original target.

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First Minister John Swinney has maintained that the goal is still achievable, but acknowledged that significant work remains. However, the failure to implement substantial policies that would drive behavioural change, such as continued investment in public transport, suggests that meeting the target will be a major challenge.

Difficult Decisions: Why Scotland Is Struggling

One of the key reasons for the lack of progress is the complexity and fragmentation of spending at both the national and local government levels. The report noted that decisions aimed at discouraging car use would be “difficult and potentially unpopular.” This is evident in policy decisions such as the Scottish government’s decision to axe its trial of scrapping peak rail fares, citing its £40m cost as unjustifiable.

Audit Scotland’s findings suggest that without bold, decisive action, the government will struggle to make any meaningful reductions in car use. Auditor General Stephen Boyle emphasized that since the target is unlikely to be met, the government must now clarify how this shortfall will impact Scotland’s wider net-zero ambitions.

Lack of Leadership and Political Divisions

The report also criticizes the lack of clear leadership in driving the initiative forward. Ruth MacLeod from the Accounts Commission stressed that all levels of government must work together, with councils needing to outline their role in contributing to the 2030 target. However, local authorities argue that they need clearer direction and guidance from the Scottish government.

The political divide over transport strategy is evident, with opposition parties criticizing the Scottish National Party (SNP) for what they describe as an incoherent approach. Scottish Conservative transport spokeswoman Sue Webber pointed out that cutting public transport services while increasing fares discourages people from switching away from cars. Similarly, Scottish Labour’s Claire Baker called the report a “damning indictment” of the SNP’s failure to build a modern, sustainable transport system.

A Path Forward? Government Response and Future Plans

Despite the criticism, the Scottish government has reiterated its commitment to reducing car dependency and investing in sustainable transport solutions. Transport Scotland has pledged to consider the report’s recommendations and is working with local authority partners to address the concerns raised. The government has also allocated £263m in the next budget to support measures aimed at reducing car use.

A government spokesperson acknowledged that Scotland still has “some way to go” in transitioning from private vehicles to public transport and active travel. However, they stressed that cross-party support at all levels of government is essential to achieving these goals.

Green MSP Mark Ruskell echoed the call for greater affordability in public transport, arguing that the high cost of train and bus travel is a significant barrier to change. By reducing fares, Scotland could encourage more people to leave their cars at home and opt for greener alternatives.

Conclusion: Time for Action

Scotland’s climate ambitions are under serious threat due to its failure to make substantial progress in reducing car use. Without clear leadership, measurable milestones, and a unified strategy, the 2030 target is slipping out of reach. As the government grapples with financial constraints and political challenges, it must take decisive action to ensure its climate pledges are more than just rhetoric.

With only six years remaining until the deadline, Scotland must urgently implement policies that encourage the shift from private vehicles to public transport. Whether through better funding, improved services, or lower fares, concrete steps are needed—otherwise, Scotland risks missing a crucial opportunity to lead in climate action.

 

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