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Transport stands as Scotland's largest single contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 31.7% of the country's total emissions in 2022—representing 12.6 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent. This episode explores the critical challenge of transforming Scotland's transport system from fossil fuel dependence to net-zero emissions while maintaining the connectivity that underpins Scotland's economy and society.

The current transport emissions landscape reveals passenger cars dominating at 39% of all transport greenhouse gas emissions, followed by heavy goods vehicles at 27%, shipping at 13%, and aviation at 3%. With 3.1 million licensed motor vehicles in 2023—the highest level on record—road transport collectively accounts for approximately two-thirds of transport emissions, highlighting where decarbonization efforts must focus.

While transport emissions in 2022 were 13.3% lower than 1990 levels, demonstrating that progress is achievable, they increased 9.1% from 2021, largely reflecting post-pandemic recovery. The efficiency of new vehicles has improved significantly, with average CO₂ emissions for new car registrations falling 16% over the past decade, while ultra-low emission vehicles reached 26,417 registrations in 2023.

Key challenges include infrastructure limitations, particularly insufficient charging networks in rural and remote areas creating geographic inequalities in clean transport access. Economic barriers persist with higher upfront costs for electric vehicles despite lower operating costs, particularly problematic for commercial operators. Grid capacity and carbon intensity present additional complexities, while behavioral change remains limited despite 64% public transport satisfaction in 2023.

The pathways to net-zero require comprehensive approaches across all transport modes. Electrification represents the primary pathway for light-duty vehicles, supported by the Scottish Government's commitment to phase out new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. Heavy-duty transport requires multiple solutions: battery electric trucks for shorter distances, hydrogen fuel cells for long-distance freight, and green hydrogen infrastructure development creating new economic opportunities.

Public transport electrification offers significant emissions reductions while improving urban air quality, with bus electrification already underway in several Scottish cities. Rail electrification delivers long-term benefits. Active travel infrastructure development enables modal shift, with cycling activity increasing 10% compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Freight decarbonization requires targeted interventions including modal shift from road to rail and water transport, last-mile delivery optimization through consolidation centers and cargo bike systems. Digital technologies offer efficiency improvements through Mobility as a Service platforms and smart traffic management.

Policy recommendations include scaling infrastructure investment for comprehensive charging networks while ensuring rural access equity. Financial incentives should be redesigned with enhanced purchase incentives, scrappage schemes, and commercial vehicle support.

Public transport investment should prioritize electrification and service improvements, while regulatory measures establish clear timelines through low emission zones and building standards requiring electric vehicle charging provision.

Skills development ensures just transition through training programs creating employment opportunities while supporting traditional sector workers. The transformation represents b

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