Transport accounted for 24% of the UK’s total Carbon Emissions in 2020
A recent study found that domestic transport is responsible for emitting 99 MtCO2e (million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent), so by changing the way we travel to lower these emissions, we can reduce out impact on the planet and improve air quality.
Air quality has a big impact on our health and to make sure the air is free of pollutants, and greenhouse gases which cause climate change, we need to move away from fossil fuels and use clean and green alternatives. Not only will you lower your carbon footprint by moving away from petrol and diesel, you could also save money! Inflation has caused fuel prices to spike and there are many low carbon and inexpensive alternatives available.
Public Transport
We are working closely with partners to make public transport such as buses, more available to the people of County Durham. Replacing car journeys with public transport can help reduce CO2 emissions by 42% if using the bus and 73% if using the train. In County Durham, some bus route have even slashed price tickets to just £2 maximum for a single journey and this is available until the 30 June.
Cycling and Walking
Cycling and walking are two other modes of transport that can be good for your carbon footprint, pocket and even your health.
We are in the progress of delivering County Durham’s Strategic Cycling and Walking Delivery Plan 2019-2029 , which includes actions to develop Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIPs) for the 12 main towns across the county.
In the first stage of this programme, LCWIPs were developed for Durham City, Chester-le-Street and Newton Aycliffe and these have been approved and adopted by us. In the second round, last year, the remaining nine LCWIPs were produced and are awaiting approval.
So, why not ditch the car this weekend and consider taking a trip using local transport a bike or walking to lower your carbon emissions? Your planet, pocket and health will thank you!
