Climate change monitoring report 2023
The second annual statutory monitoring report against the updated 2018 Climate Change Plan, as per the Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Act 2019.
Climate Change Plan Monitoring Report 2023: Transport
Part A - Overview of sector
The 2020 annual emissions envelope published in the CCPu for this sector was for 11.0 MtCO2e, whereas the outturn emission statistics for this year (published in June 2022) show a position of 10.3 MtCO2e[22]. On the basis of comparing these figures, the sector was within its envelope in 2020.
The CCPu sets out the following policy outcomes for this sector, the indicators for which are summarised below:
| To address our overreliance on cars, we will reduce car kilometres by 20% by 2030 | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % reduction in car kilometres | X |
| We will phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030 | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % of new car registrations that are ULEV | X | ||
| % of new van registrations that are ULEV | X |
| To reduce emissions in the freight sector, we will work with the industry to understand the most efficient methods and remove the need for new petrol and diesel heavy vehicles by 2035 | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % of new HGV registrations that are ULEV | X |
| We will work with the newly formed Bus Decarbonisation Taskforce, comprised of leaders from the bus, energy and finance sectors, to ensure that the majority of new buses purchased from 2024 are zero emission, and to bring this date forward if possible. | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % of new bus registrations that are ULEV | X |
| We will work to decarbonise scheduled flights within Scotland by 2040. | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % reduction in emissions from scheduled flights within Scotland. | X |
| Proportion of ferries in Scottish Government ownership which are low emission has increased to 30% by 2032 | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % of ferries that are low emissions | X |
By 2032 low emission solutions have been widely adopted at Scottish ports.
There are no indicators for this policy outcome. More information is provided in Part C.
| Scotland’s passenger rail services will be decarbonised by 2035. | On Track | Off Track | Too Early to Say |
|---|---|---|---|
| % of single track kilometres electrified | X | ||
| % of train kilometres powered by alternative traction | X |
Just transition and cross economy impacts
We wish to understand and report on the broader just transition and cross-economy impacts of our emissions-reduction activities in addition to these sector specific policy outcomes and indicators. To do this, in this report we use data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS): Low Carbon Renewable Energy Economy (LCREE) publication. The LCREE data presented in this report is based on survey data of businesses which perform economic activities that deliver goods and services that are likely to help generate lower emissions of greenhouse gases, for example low carbon electricity, low emission vehicles and low carbon services.
The LCREE indicator is narrowly defined and, while useful within its limited scope, does not give us the full picture of the impacts on workforce, employers and communities and progress towards a just transition.
Over the next few years we will work to develop a more meaningful set of success outcomes and indicators aimed at tracking the impacts of our policies on a just transition to net zero.
Sector commentary on progress
2020 was the first-time transport emissions have been within its envelope of 11.0 MtCO2e, and this was mainly as a result of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. This demonstrates the scale of the emissions reduction required to be achieved but without the extraordinary impact of a pandemic.
Cars continue to account for the largest share of all transport emissions, 38% in 2020. A draft route map was published in January 2022 and a consultation was undertaken to support the policy outcome to reduce car kilometres by 20% by 2030. A finalised route map will be published later this year.
We need plans to deter car use to accompany plans to encourage active travel and the use of public transport.
We continue to provide funding through the Bus Partnership Fund for bus priority measures, building on the £25.8m awarded to date. The Young Person’s Free Bus Travel Scheme launched in January 2022, providing free bus travel for young people under the age of 22. By early May 2023, two-thirds of young people had a valid Young Scot or NEC card to access free bus travel. We have committed to a record level of increased investment in active travel of at least £320 million a year by 2024-25 or 10% of the total transport budget. However, the evidence is clear that incentivising sustainable alternatives alone will not be sufficient to bring about the behaviour change to deliver the scale of 20% car KM reduction therefore we have commissioned research exploring equitable options for demand management to discourage car use.
Alongside car KM reduction, increased ULEV adoption is important to drive a reduction in emissions from cars. Electric vehicle sales remain strong against a challenging global supply chain. Additionally, with many companies and households now leasing vehicles that are often registered south of the border, UK Government statistics may understate the progress being made by Scotland.
We are consulting with the other nations of the UK on the introduction of a Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, as a possible means to support increased zero emission vehicle adoption. Our Low Carbon Transport Loan has provided over £185m of interest free loans to individuals and businesses across Scotland supporting the transition to low carbon vehicles. The ChargePlace Scotland network continues to grow and to date there are over 2400 charging points across the network with investment now over £65m.
Significant investment continues to be made in decarbonising the bus fleet: £62m in capital funding was awarded through the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB), the Bus Decarbonisation Taskforce has published its pathway to a zero-carbon bus sector, with the Scottish Government launching a new £500,000 scheme to support its delivery.
At present 40.7% of single track kilometres on Scotland’s rail network is electrified and we continue to make progress on decarbonising Scotland’s Railway with completion of electrification of the Barrhead Line due to complete in December 2023.
Modal shift remains a priority for rail freight and this is supported through investment and regulatory targets. The regulatory growth target of 7.5% in the current rail control period which runs from 2019 to 2024 has driven a focus on rail freight and changed behaviours. This, along with a growing understanding from companies of the “brand value” of moving goods sustainably, has resulted in a number of new rail freight services in the last year. With this in mind, we have set a further challenging growth target of 8.7% for the next rail control period (2024 to 2029) with the expectation that growth of 10% may be achievable.
We also continue to work with industry partners and third-party investors, to grow rail freight on the Scottish network. A key example of the result of this work is Highland Spring’s new rail freight facility at Blackford which was opened in August 2022. This terminal, which was facilitated by Scottish Government policies and investment, will remove a minimum of 10.02 million lorry miles from Scotland’s roads in the first 10 years of operation.
In addition, in relation to road freight, we have established the Zero Emission Truck Taskforce, a group of senior leaders spanning haulage operators, trade bodies, government, energy, commercial finance and manufacturers. The Taskforce will identify the hurdles and opportunities offered by the transition to zero emission trucks. Working collaboratively, they will set out the steps required to enable a swift and just transition to new technologies, identifying where further development is required and exploring new business models.
Developments in monitoring arrangements since last report
N/A
Part B- Progress to Policy Outcome indicators
Policy Outcome: Cross-sectoral social and economic
Indicator: FTE employment in Low Carbon Renewable Energy Economy Indicator
On-Track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year-to-year change
Most Recent Data: 2021
Data Source(s): Office of National Statistics: Low Carbon Renewable Energy Economy (LCREE), Time spent of Green Tasks
Assessment: Too Early to Say
Commentary:
In 2021, the Scottish low carbon renewable energy (LCREE) sectors were estimated to provide 28,300 jobs, the highest in the published data.
- The estimates of LCREE are based on a relatively small sample of businesses and hence are subject to a wide confidence interval. Scottish LCREE employment in 2021 is substantially higher than previous years but the difference Is not statistically higher than 2020.
- LCREE only shows employment in roles in Industries directly involved in the transition to Net Zero.
- The ONS also released experimental statistics on a wider perspective of
- green activity in the economy with their time spent on green tasks release.
- These stats reflect green activities in both LCREE and non-LCREE sectors. The 2023 publication has not yet been published.
- Last year’s publication showed that in 2019 Scotland achieved an all-time high of hours spent on green tasks and proportion of workers doing green tasks, including workers who spend more than 20% of their time on green tasks.
- The proportion of workers doing green tasks in Scotland was 36% in 2019, up from 23.8% in 2004. Workers who have spent more than 20% of their time doing green tasks was 14%, up from 9% in 2004.
- The proportion of overall hours spend doing green tasks in Scotland was 7%, up from 4.9% in 2004.
Policy Outcome: 1
Indicator: % reduction in car kilometres
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Progress to target [20% reduction by 2030][23]
Most recent data: -15.3% (2019-2021)
Data source(s): Scottish Transport Statistics 2022
Assessment: On track
Commentary:
Following significant pandemic-related car traffic reductions in 2020, the latest figures show that as expected, car use began to rebound as COVID-19 restrictions eased, with car kilometres increasing by 14.9% between 2020 and 2021. Nevertheless the 15.3% reduction against the 2019 baseline reflects ongoing changes to travel patterns through 2021, including increased use of digital connectivity which enables people to work and connect with others remotely.
There remains a significant amount of uncertainty regarding the travel patterns in the medium- and long-term, but it is expected car traffic will continue to rise over the next 2-3 years before interventions to deliver reductions in car traffic start to make an impact.
Sustained reductions in car use are expected to occur post-2025, on the assumption that demand management measures are designed, approved and implemented in the intervening period. These will be supported by our early route map interventions, including free bus travel for the under-22s and Low Emission Zones, as well as further enhancements to digital connectivity, increased emphasis on the importance of reducing unnecessary travel, and a supportive approach to flexible and local working.
Policy Outcome: 2
Indicator: % of new car registrations that are ULEV
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year-to-year change
Most recent data: 14.0% (Year to Q3 2022)
Data source(s): Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Assessment: On track
Commentary:
ULEVs accounted for 14.0% of new car registrations in the 12 months to September 2022. This is an increase from 11.4% in the previous twelve-month period.
The number of new ULEV car registrations in Scotland has increased every year since records began in 2010. Over the past year, the number of ULEV cars registered for the first time in Scotland increased by 19% compared to the previous year, with nearly 19,000 ULEVs registered over the past 12 months. Additionally, with many companies and households now leasing vehicles that are often registered south of the border, UK Government statistics may understate the progress being made by Scotland.
The minimum viable pathway shows the minimum rate of ULEV car registrations that is considered to be required each year in order to remain on-track for achieving this policy outcome. As of Q3 2022, the rate of ULEV car registrations is greater than the minimum viable rate for 2022, therefore progress towards this policy outcome is currently considered to be on track. This pathway may be reviewed and refined in future years.
Policy Outcome: 2
Indicator: % of new van registrations that are ULEV
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year-to-year change
Most recent data: 2.1% (Year to Q3 2022)
Data source(s): Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Assessment: On track
Commentary:
ULEVs accounted for 2.1% of new van registrations in the 12 months to September 2022. This is an increase from 1.8% in the previous twelve-month period.
Although ULEV vans currently represent a small proportion of all new van registrations, the number of new ULEV vans registered in Scotland has increased by 15% over the past year, compared to the previous 12 months.
The minimum viable pathway shows the minimum rate of ULEV van registrations that is considered to be required each year in order to remain on-track for achieving this policy outcome. As of Q3 2022, the rate of ULEV van registrations is in line with the minimum viable rate for 2022, therefore progress towards this policy outcome is currently considered to be on track. This pathway may be reviewed and refined in future years.
Policy Outcome: 3
Indicator: % of new HGV registrations that are ULEV
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year-to-year change
Most recent data: 0% (Year to Q3 2022)
Data source(s): DVLA/DfT
Assessment: Too early to say
Commentary:
There were a very small number of ULEV HGV registrations in the year to Q3 2022. This is to be expected given the rate at which technology and energy infrastructure have developed to date.
These vehicles are now becoming more widely available and the Zero Emission Truck Taskforce (comprising senior leaders across operators, manufacturing, commercial finance, energy infrastructure, government and unions) has met 6 times, moving from an information gathering phase to working groups developing actions. The expected output from the group is a pathway to zero emission HGVs in Scotland, with agreed collaborative actions to unlock transition to zero emission HGVs at pace.
Hauliers are keen to transition as soon as there is sufficient energy infrastructure and it is commercially viable to do so. Manufacturers recognise that Scottish fleets are innovative and enthusiastic; there is an increasing number of vehicles available for urban and regional use cases; and commercial finance partners are beginning to develop products which make the vehicles more accessible to operators. However high energy costs, a high initial purchase price and lack of experience of the vehicles in real world settings allied to a lack of energy infrastructure continue to provide substantial hurdles which the developing pathway will seek to overcome.
Policy Outcome: 4
Indicator: % of new bus registrations that are ULEV
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year-to-year change
Most recent data: 37% (Year to Q3 2022)
Data source(s): DVLA/DfT
Assessment: On track
Commentary:
ULEVs accounted for 37% of new bus registrations in the 12 months to September 2022. This is an increase from 13% in the previous twelve-month period.
The number of new ULEV buses has increased considerably in the past year, with 68% of all ULEV bus registrations to date having taken place in the 12 months to Q3 2022.
The minimum viable pathway shows the minimum rate of ULEV bus registrations that is considered to be required each year in order to remain on track for achieving this policy outcome. As of Q3 2022, the rate of ULEV bus registrations is above the minimum viable rate for 2022, therefore progress towards this policy outcome is currently considered to be on track. This pathway may be reviewed and refined in future years.
To date, the Scottish Government has supported the Scottish bus sector on the journey to Net Zero by supporting the acquisition of 548 zero-emission buses and their supporting infrastructure, through the Scottish Ultra Low Emission Bus Scheme (SULEBS) and the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB). The Bus Decarbonisation Taskforce concluded its lifespan with the publication of the Pathway to Zero Emission Buses in Scotland, with actions for industry leaders from manufacturing, operating, energy and finance sectors to work together to maintain momentum, and overcome the challenges towards a Just Transition to a zero-emission future for bus in Scotland.
The Market Transition Scheme, worth £500,000, was launched in August 2022 and ran until December 2022, and was designed to support SME, community, and coach tour operators, as well as larger operators, DNOs, manufacturers and financiers to come together to establish consortia and develop innovative business models in advance of any potential second round of ScotZEB. By encouraging the industry to collaborate and engage with private financing, opportunities for aggregating demand and unlocking economies of scale are presented, demonstrating strong value-for-money and driving momentum for the market to become self-sustaining.
Policy Outcome: 5
Indicator: % reduction in emissions from scheduled flights within Scotland
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year-to-year change
Most recent data: +91% (2021-2022)
Data source(s): Loganair
Assessment: Too early to say
Commentary:
As expected, emissions from scheduled flights within Scotland grew significantly over the period as COVID-19 restrictions relaxed, with a return to work and resumption of other previously restricted activities.
Maintaining connectivity within the Highlands and Islands whilst reducing emissions will require the use of new types of aircraft (such as hydrogen, electric or hybrid), and/ or the greater use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Loganair, which operates the vast majority of flights across the Highlands and Islands, expects the first small, zero-emission commercial flights to be operating across Scotland by the end of this decade. It reportedly has an ambition for all its fleet to be zero-emissions aircraft by 2040.
A significant breakthrough occurred in January this year with the test flying of the largest aircraft in the world to be powered by a hydrogen-electric engine. While there are many regulatory, funding and testing stages to be gone through before low/ zero emission craft can be operated commercially, it is expected that 19-seater aircraft such as the one test flown could potentially be used on a range of Scottish routes.
The UKG recently published its ‘Jet Zero’ aviation strategy. As regulation of aviation is reserved, various policy measures will apply to Scotland, for example, the introduction of a SAF mandate and the establishment of SAF production facilities in the UK. We would expect these – and other global measures to stimulate SAF production – to reduce significantly the cost differential between SAF and current aviation fuel. In turn, this should reduce emissions from scheduled flights within Scotland. Jet Zero also includes an aim for net zero domestic aviation by 2040 and an aspiration for zero emission routes connecting different parts of the UK by 2030.
The exact impact of these and other measures to encourage low/ zero emission flights cannot be fully determined at this stage, and this indicator therefore remains assessed as ‘too early to say’.
Policy Outcome: 6
Indicator: % of Government owned ferries that are low emissions.
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Progress to target [30% by 2032]
Most recent data: 8% of the current Scottish Government Fleet consists of low emission vessels.
Data source(s): Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd (CMAL) & Transport Scotland
Assessment: On track
Commentary:
An advance copy of the draft Long-Term Plan for Vessels and Ports was published at the end of 2022, as a first part of the Islands Connectivity Plan, set out proposals for fleet modernisation and port upgrades to 2045 and includes a section on carbon reduction.
The Small Vessel Replacement Programme, which is approaching business case decision, will increase the number of low emission vessels within the Scottish Government's ferry fleet. The programme will deliver vessels that utilise the latest proven battery and on shore charging technologies.
The indicative share of low emission ferries in each year is set out below. This trajectory has been updated to align with current programme timelines, but as plans and programmes are in place to deliver a sufficient number of low emissions vessels by 2032, progress towards the target is currently considered to be on-track.
Expected share of vessels in Scottish Government fleet that are low/zero emission:
2018 - 8%
2019 - 8%
2020 - 8%
2021 - 8%
2022 - 8%
2023 - 8%
2024 - 8%
2025 - 8%
2026 - 12%
2027 - 17%
2028 - 24%
2029 - 24%
2031 - 24%
2032 - 30%
Policy Outcome: 8
Indicator: % of single track kilometres.
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Progress to target [70% electrified by 2034]
Most recent data: In July 2020 Network Rail advised that 40.7% of single track kilometres on Scotland’s rail network were electrified
Data source(s): Network Rail Scotland Route
Assessment: On Track
Commentary:
No electrification project has been completed since the most recent data was sought and therefore the proportion of the network able to support electric traction is unchanged since the previous monitoring report.
Year by year changes are unpredictable since whole lines effectively become electrified upon completion of long term projects and therefore the indicator will undergo discrete increases rather than following a smooth continuous increase.
The first route planned to be newly electrified is the Barrhead Line by the end of 2023. The East Kilbride Line is next in line to be electrified in 2025. There is an aspiration to electrify more routes by 2030, in line with the Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan and rolling stock replacement schedules and therefore the indicator is assessed as on track.
Policy Outcome: 8
Indicator: % of train kilometres powered by alternative traction
On-track Assessment (Milestones/Targets): Year to year change
Most recent data: 0%
Data source(s): n/a
Assessment: Too early to say
Commentary:
It is envisaged that a small number of remote routes with low service frequency will be served by hydrogen trains or possibly battery trains relying on different charging methods. Due to the relatively infrequent use of rural lines, these lines only generate a small percentage of Scotland’s train kilometres.
It is unlikely to be technically feasible to introduce such technologies until around 2030, therefore the indicator is assessed at too early to say.
Part C - Information on implementation of individual policies
Outcome 1: To address our overreliance on cars, we will reduce car kilometres by 20% by 2030
Policy
If the health pandemic has moved to a phase to allow more certainty on future transport trends and people’s behaviours – and work and lifestyle choices future forecasting – we will publish a route-map to meet the 20% reduction by 2030 in 2021.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Route map published in draft 13 January 2022, along with public consultation launch and draft impact assessments. Following the public consultation on the draft route map, Transport Scotland is currently working with CoSLA to prepare a final version of the route map.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Complete.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Public consultation closed 6 April 2022. Consultation analysis and finalised route map will be published in the coming months.
Policy
Commit to exploring options around remote working, in connection with our work on 20minute neighbourhoods and work local programme.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Transport Scotland and Scottish Government commissioned and published research through which we explored options around remote options: one a socio-economic analysis of home working (published October 2021), and another on the emissions impact of home working (published August 2021).
NPF4, adopted February 2023, sets out a series of spatial principles for Scotland 2045 including ‘local living’, bringing thinking about 20 Minute Neighbourhoods into everyday decisions in the future planning of our places.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Trends on home and remote working remain uncertain, but we will continue to strongly encourage employers to work with their employees to consider, for the longer term, hybrid working models where this is possible and appropriate. We will publish a draft of Local Living and 20 Minute Neighbourhood Guidance to assist those keen to adapt or develop their place as a 20 Minute Neighbourhood, following the adoption by Scottish Ministers of NPF4. The guidance will include resources and support on how to deliver neighbourhoods that support the ability to live well locally.
Policy
COVID-19 has impacted on how we work. We launched a Work Local Challenge to drive innovation in work place choices and remote working to support flexible working and our net zero objectives.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The Work Local Challenge Programme ran between July 2020 and March 2022 to support innovation and address the challenges caused by the shift in workplace settings and working patterns resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Supported Construction Scotland Innovation Centre’s NearHome project - achieved early stage commercialisation within the timescales of the project, and became viable without further public funding.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
N/A (complete outputs and outcomes being taken forward by project partners such as Built Environment – Smarter Transformation and Scottish Futures Trust).
Policy
We will work with the UK Government on options to review fuel duty proposals, in the context of the need to reduce demand for unsustainable travel and the potential for revenue generation.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Scottish Ministers have written on several occasions to UK Government ministers requesting meaningful engagement on plans for structural reform of reserved motoring taxation, which the UK Government itself acknowledged is inevitable and required in their recent Net Zero Review. To date, the UK Government has been unwilling to set out its plans or a timescale for engagement.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Timeframes on engagement are at the discretion of the UK Government, who have so far been unwilling to discuss. However, Scottish Government ministers and officials will continue to press for meaningful dialogue.
Policy
We will work with local authorities to continue to ensure that their parking and local transport strategies have proper appreciation of climate change, as well as the impact on all road users, including public transport operators, disabled motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Date announced
CCPu 2020 Although continuation of work already underway
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Transport Scotland has engaged with local authority and RTP stakeholders on development of updated Local Transport Strategy guidance.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
Draft guidance was published 22 March 2023 for stakeholder review until 15 June, to inform the final guidance expected to publish in the Autumn 2023.
Policy
To support the monitoring requirement for the National Transport Strategy set out in the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, and to further our understanding of how and why people travel, we will develop a data strategy and invest in data.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
None
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
The Transport Scotland Data Strategy will continue to be developed in 2023.
Policy
Continue to support the Smarter Choices, Smarter Places (SCSP) programme to encourage behaviour change. Continue to support the provision of child and adult cycle training, and safety programmes including driver cycling awareness training through Bikeability.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
None
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Monitored and evaluated against the Active Travel Framework on an ongoing basis through Transport Scotland’s direct grant management of the programmes with the delivery partners.
Timeframe and expected next steps
N/A
Policy
We will grant fund CoMoUK to increase awareness of the role and benefits of shared transport and look at the barriers to uptake of car clubs.
Date announced
PfG 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
None
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Monitored and evaluated against the Active Travel Framework on an ongoing basis through Transport Scotland’s direct grant management of the programmes with the delivery partners.
Timeframe and expected next steps
N/A
Policy
Support transformational active travel projects with a £500 million investment, over five years, for active travel infrastructure, access to bikes and behaviour change schemes. Enabling the delivery of high quality, safe walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure alongside behaviour change, education and advocacy to encourage more people to choose active and sustainable travel. Support the use of E-bikes and adapted bikes through interest free loans, grants and trials
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The Scottish Government announced record funding for active travel (AT) in its draft budget proposal, with almost £190m allocated to AT for 2023-24, against a budget of £150m in 2022-23, the majority of which will be allocated to deliver new and upgraded infrastructure.
PfG of 2021 has also committed that at least £320m or 10% of the total transport budget will be allocated to active travel by 2024-25.
TS has been working with key delivery partners to prepare a new cycling framework for active travel, setting out the strategic priorities for cycling for transport and the key actions that we will take forward in partnership to achieve our aims.
Transport Scotland is reviewing the delivery model for active travel (AT) in preparation for increased funding and will bring evidenced proposals for an alternative, holistic system for AT delivery, including recommendations on the delivery models needed.
A Transformation Fund, in the region of £20m-£25m, has been launched to accelerate AT projects for partners who have eligible construction-ready AT schemes in 2023/24.
Existing programmes including behaviour change continue to be supported.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
The Cycling Action Plan for Scotland will be replaced by a new cycling framework for active travel, setting out the strategic priorities for cycling for transport and the key actions that we will take forward in partnership to achieve our aims.
Timeframe and expected next steps
The new cycling framework for Active Travel will be published in 2023
The review of Active Travel delivery model will report in first half of 2023, followed by a restructure of TS active travel delivery to prepare for increased funding
Policy
We have re-purposed almost £39 million of active travel funding for the Spaces for People; this is enabling local authorities to put in place the temporary measures such as pop-up cycle lanes and widening walkways that are needed to allow people to physically distance during transition out of the COVID-19 lockdown.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Whilst this fund has been closed to new applications since July 2020, additional funding of £2m has been released in 2022-23 to enable some schemes to become permanent; work is ongoing and expected to conclude in early 2023-24.
Evaluation for programme was published in September 2022 showing the successes and positive changes in travel choice behaviour that the schemes have enabled.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
This programme is now closed and no further milestones are set.
Timeframe and expected next steps
No further action planned, subject to completion of permanency work
Policy
Support increased access to bikes for all including the provision of public bike and ebike share.
Date announced
2019-2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Throughout 2022 we have developed a policy response to increase access to bike for those who are experiencing barriers to cycling, including financial, physical or accessibility barriers. The Access Bikes scheme is delivered through CyclingUK and aims to provide access to cycles through a number of mediums, including bike share and ownership models.
In Glasgow we have supported the creation of a bike subscription model based on a successful project run in the City of Paris.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
N/A
Policy
Mobility as a Service and increased use of peer to peer car sharing which will help reduce the number journeys made by car. To do this we are harnessing innovation within our transport system through investing up to £2 million over three years to develop ‘Mobility as a Service’ (MaaS) in Scotland
Date announced
PfG 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Five projects have been awarded funding as part of the MaaS Investment Fund (MIF). All projects are due to complete in 2023.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Monitoring and evaluation plans were created for each MIF project
Timeframe and expected next steps
All projects are due for completion by end 2023, with the overall MIF evaluation report due early 2024. This report will be used as the basis for future MaaS policy and investment.
Policy
We will work to improve road safety, ensuring people feel safe with appropriate measures in place to enable that. We will publish Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030, following consultation on an ambitious and compelling long-term vision for road safety where there are zero fatalities or serious injuries on Scotland’s roads by 2050.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
We have continued to work with partners to ensure that road safety delivery remains a priority, however, due to the cost of living crisis of Road Safety Improvement Fund of £15 million did not go ahead. We were also not able to proceed with road safety marketing and education campaigns. Whilst there is no direct evidence to demonstrate the lack of activity with recent road collision data, we have seen a stark rise in road fatalities since traffic flows have returned to normal after the pandemic
We have continued to make good progress on the National Speed Management Review (NSMR) with the milestone 2 report now complete with a view to modelling the reduction in speed limits through to completion in November 2023. We issued £1.4 million of funding to support LA’s to assess what streets within their respective areas should have a safer speed limits of 20 mph.
Implementation of the safer speed limits will take place from 23/24 through to the end of 2025
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Continually monitoring road casualty data and in particular fatalities week on week with the previous year.
20 mph task group meeting in April to agree next steps
Programme agreed with WSP on the NSMR
Timeframe and expected next steps
We are investing in the region of £26 million of road safety initiatives this financial year across engineering, marketing and education. This includes local and trunk road measures
Delivery will be taking place through 23/24 and the 20 mph task group will monitor progress of the reduction of speed limits in Scotland as we approach the 2025 deadline.
The process will include a stakeholder and public consultation later this year to consider their views of whether any changes to speed limit policies and speed management measures should be introduced as part of our speed management plan.
Policy
We are committed to taking forward policy consultation in advance of drafting supporting regulations and guidance to enable local authorities to implement workplace parking levy schemes that suit their local circumstances.
Date announced
2019-2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Regulations came into force in March 2022 and guidance was published in June 2022, so local authorities are now able to use their discretionary powers to implement WPL schemes.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
The milestones (regulations in force and guidance published) have been completed in 2022.
Timeframe and expected next steps
It is now a decision for local authorities whether to take forward local schemes.
Policy
We will bring forward a step change in investment with over £500 million to improve bus priority infrastructure to tackle the impacts of congestion on bus services and raise bus usage. We will launch the Bus Partnership Fund in the coming months to support local authorities’ ambitions around tackling congestion.
Date announced
2019-22 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
A number of measures have been implemented and work to identify and develop business cases for further measures is also underway. The Scottish Government remains committed to funding further bus priority projects, subject to completion of robust business cases and in line with available funding.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Monitoring and evaluation plans are being developed for bus priority measures.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Long term investment in bus priority infrastructure.
Policy
We remain committed to delivering a national concessionary travel scheme for free bus travel for under 19s, and have begun the necessary preparations including planning, research, legal review and due diligence.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG & Budget 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The Young Persons Free bus Travel Scheme was extended to all aged under 22. The Scheme went live on 31 January 2022 with the potential to benefit up to 930,000 young people.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
By the end of February 2023, there were 590,178 valid Young Scot or NEC cardholders able to access free bus travel.
Over 63% of children and young people eligible for free bus travel are now benefiting.
Uptake is much higher amongst those who can use the scheme independently, with over 72% of 12-15 year olds and 75% of 16-21 year olds having a valid card.
In addition, of over 50 million journeys made, around 60% were taken by those aged 16-21, showing huge interest and usage of the scheme and representing significant cost savings for young people accessing education and work.
Timeframe and expected next steps
SG focus remains on encouraging as many young people as possible to take advantage of the free bus travel offer.
The Young Persons Scheme has cost around £93.5 million to date. The forecast spend on the scheme in the next financial year has been estimated at up to £189.5 million.
Policy
We are also carrying out a review of discounts available on public transport to those under the age of 26 – due for completion end of December 2020 (with consultation planned on young people’s views on the impacts of COVID 19 and post lockdown measures on public transport usage and behaviour).
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Scottish Government has carried out analysis on a range of options including the cost of extending free bus travel and on concessionary travel across all modes of public transport to those under the age of 26. This included cost and benefit analysis. The review has concluded and was published on the Transport Scotland website on 22 September 2022 at Under 26 Concessionary Fares Review | Transport Scotland
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
N/A
Timeframe and expected next steps
Completed
Policy
Delivery of our first Active Freeways - segregated active travel routes on main travel corridors connecting communities and major trip attractors.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Work is progressing in parallel with wider changes to the way that active travel infrastructure is delivered in Scotland.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Not currently, linked to the wider monitoring of active travel.
Timeframe and expected next steps
The delivery and next steps are dependent on the outcomes of the Active Travel delivery model reporting expected in spring 2023.
Outcome 2: We will phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2030.
Policy
We will consider and develop new financing and delivery models for electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Scotland and working with the Scottish Future Trust to do so.
Date announced
Boosted 2019/20 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Launched the EV Infrastructure Fund in summer of 2022, engaging with local authorities, private electric vehicle charge point operators and other stakeholders through a series of workshops and direct engagement. Made funding available to all Scottish Local Authorities to develop EV Strategy and Expansion Plans that would support development of business cases that support an application to the EV Infrastructure Fund and identify opportunities to lever private sector finance.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
£30m of new funding programme aimed to be leveraged from commercial sector and doubling public charging provision from current baseline of approximately 2,800 over next 4 years.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Funding awards anticipated to be made from Q1 2023/24.
Policy
We have invested over £30m to grow and develop the ChargePlace Scotland network which is now the 4th largest in the UK. We will continue to develop the capacity of the electric vehicle charging network.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Investment in the ChargePlace Scotland network has now risen to over £65m, continuing to expand the network
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Number of chargepoints on the CPS network now exceeds 2400
Timeframe and expected next steps
Awards under the EV Infrastructure Fund anticipated Q1 2023/24.
Policy
Our Low Carbon Transport Loan has provided over £185m of interest free loans to individuals and businesses across Scotland supporting the transition to low carbon vehicles. We have now refocused the scheme to focus on used vehicles as well as targeting Small and Medium Enterprises along with Third Sector Organisations.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Last year’s budget for the LCTL was fully utilised and the scheme continues to be promoted by EST and other stakeholders, currently we have provided over £185m worth of funding since the LCTL started.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
We are currently reviewing the schemes from last year to ensure they still meet their intended policy objectives, We have been engaging with EST in creating a new workplan for our existing schemes and will be seeking sign off from the Minister.
Policy
We will continue to promote the uptake of ULEVs in the taxi and private hire sector.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Energy Saving Trust (EST) through annual funding from TS continue to provide support, guidance and access to appropriate financial schemes to taxi owners and operators across Scotland. This year the taxi loan will be expanded to include used private hire and hackney vehicles, EST will also run a number of forums to bring the taxi industry and licence teams from LAs together to discuss the barriers impacting uptake of EVs.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
Annual workplan with EST is currently being reviewed with TS for proposed schemes for FY 23/24
Policy
Continue to promote the benefits of EVs to individuals and fleet operators (exact nature of promotion to be decided annually).
Date announced
2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
EST continue to provide support and guidance to the Arnold Clark Innovation Centre through providing material and signposting to streams of financial support available through TS/EST, the centre is also used by EST to deliver targeted training to stakeholders to support EV uptake.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
Annual workplan with EST is currently being reviewed with TS for proposed schemes for FY 23/24.
Policy
We will work with public bodies to phase out the need for any new petrol and diesel light commercial vehicles by 2025.
Date announced
2019/20 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Continued financial support to public bodies to support fleet decarbonisation. £8m of funding in 22/23.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Not currently available. Data collection exercise underway
Timeframe and expected next steps
We will continue to work with public bodies providing support, guidance and funding to enable decarbonisation of public sector fleets.
Policy
We will support the public sector to lead the way in transitioning to EVs, putting in place procurement practices that encourage EVs. In the Programme for Government we committed to work with public bodies to phase out the need for any new petrol and diesel light commercial vehicles by 2025.
Date announced
2019/20 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
We are supporting a small number of public sector fleet pathfinder projects that will explore opportunities to accelerate decarbonisation of public fleets and to demonstrate the value of collaboration.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Pathfinder projects expected to complete Q2 23/24. Switched on Fleets will continue to support the public sector.
Policy
Create the conditions to phase out the need for all new petrol and diesel vehicles in Scotland’s public sector fleet by 2030.
Date announced
New [2019-2020 PfG]
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Continued financial support to public bodies to support fleet decarbonisation. £8m of funding in 22/23.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
N/A
Timeframe and expected next steps
We will continue to work with public bodies providing support, guidance and funding to enable decarbonisation of public sector fleets.
Policy
We will continue to invest in innovation to support the development of ULEV technologies and their adoption.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
As part of the Heavy Duty Vehicle Programme with Scottish Enterprise, Transport Scotland has funded 27 R&D projects to develop a feasibility or prototype zero emission system, component or vehicle.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
Continue to work with Team Scotland to identify zero emission transport innovation needs, to maximise Scottish economic benefit and contribute to the decarbonisation policies set out by the Scottish Government.
Policy
Take forward the initiatives in respect of connected and autonomous vehicles set out in A CAV Roadmap for Scotland.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Transport Scotland continues to work with our Project CAVForth partners to progress towards the commencement of the passenger trial service.
Transport Scotland has also been liaising with UKG in relation to future legislative changes to facilitate the use of autonomous features in vehicles, in response to the Law Commissions’ recommendations.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Transport Scotland has completed all of our commitments in advance of the trial. The commencement of the trial itself has been delayed as a result of various impacts on tasks that are in partners control and over chich Transport Scotland has no control.
Timeframe and expected next steps
The passenger trial is expected to commence in spring 2023 and Transport Scotland will continue to identify other opportunities to take forward the initiatives set out in the CAV Roadmap.
Policy
With local authorities and others, evaluate the scope for incentivising more rapid uptake of electric and ultra-low emission cars and vans.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Supported public EV charging and fleet EV charging pathfinder projects to explore new ways to invest in EV infrastructure that supports an accelerated switch to zero emission vehicles,
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Demand for electric vehicles continues to grow and investment in public charging infrastructure has increased the number of public charge points now exceed 3750
Timeframe and expected next steps
Continued support for EV infrastructure and provision of funding to EST to provide independent advice on EV purchase.
Continued engagement across the public sector to improve access to EV charging.
Outcome 3: To reduce emissions in the freight sector, we will work with the industry to understand the most efficient methods and remove the need for new petrol and diesel heavy vehicles by 2035.
Policy
To support businesses we will establish a Zero Emission heavy duty vehicle programme and will invest in a new zero drivetrain testing facility in 2021.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu.
Transport Scotland Officials established a heavy duty vehicle programme in partnership with Scottish Enterprise. This programme has undertaken research to understand and map the Scottish heavy duty vehicle supply chain. This research has enabled economic opportunity identification for Scottish companies.
Transport Scotland has invested over £3 million into the University of Strathclyde’s Driving the Electric Revolution- Industrialisation Centre Transport Hub to enable companies to test, validate and calibrate their zero emission drivetrain technology.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
Transport Scotland will continue to work with Scottish Enterprise in the Heavy Duty Vehicle sector to identify and maximise on opportunities for Scottish economic growth.
Policy
Explore the development of green finance models to help business and industry to invest in new road transport technologies.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu.
The Zero Emission Truck Taskforce considered a paper on 13 October 2022 that set out the range of current, emerging and potential future finance models that would support the transition to zero-emission HGVs. The Road Haulage Association agreed to undertake conversations with members on finance models to ascertain appetite and awareness. HGV financing models
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
no
Timeframe and expected next steps
Continued engagement with the finance, energy and vehicle sector.
Policy
We will engage with industry to understand how changing technologies and innovations in logistics (including consolidation centres) can help to reduce carbon emissions, particularly in response to the increase in ecommerce.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu.
4 stakeholder events held in 2022 across public, private and academic sectors to seeks views.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
N/A
Policy
Continue to investigate the role that other alternative fuels, such as hydrogen, and biofuel can play in the transition to a decarbonised road transport sector. Consider the scope for testing approaches to alternative fuels infrastructure and supply.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu.
Transport Scotland are continuing to review the evidence for the opportunities around the role of alternative fuels. The focus for decarbonising the transport sector remains on zero emissions technologies but we are considering how alternative fuels can be used in the transition where they do not affect the uptake of zero emission technologies.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
None
Timeframe and expected next steps
Will continue to review evidence on the use of alternative fuels.
Policy
Launched the new Hydrogen Accelerator (H2A) Programme to attract technical experts to help scale up and quicken the deployment of hydrogen technologies across Scotland.
Date announced
July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu.
The Hydrogen Accelerator has provided support to a number of hydrogen projects since it was set up, including the Hydrogen Train Project and LOCATE test centre, providing access to academic expertise. The current programme is due to end in March 2023
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
None
Timeframe and expected next steps
Reviewing the case for continuing the current programme.
Outcome 4: We will work with the newly formed Bus Decarbonisation Taskforce, comprised of leaders from the bus, energy and finance sectors, to ensure that the majority of new buses purchased from 2024 are zero-emission, and to bring this date forward if possible.
Policy
We have introduced a revised green incentive of the Bus Service Operators Grant.
Date announced
April 2019
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The incentive was paid from April 2019 to 31 March 2022 when a new grant scheme replace the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG). The incentive is payable for a maximum of 5 years from an eligible bus being brought into service Operators had indicated upfront costs were what was required when purchasing zero emission buses and this is a reflection of that policy change
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
The incentive is no longer paid to new buses being brought into service from and including 1 April 2022. A new grant scheme, the Network Support Grant was introduced with no green incentive. Those buses already receiving the BSOG incentive have their payments honoured for a total of 5 years in accordance with the scheme rules.
Timeframe and expected next steps
As operators had indicated that higher upfront costs of purchasing new zero emissions was important, this was reflected in the funding awarded through the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund.
There are no current plans to reintroduce a new green incentive through the Network Support Grant.
Policy
We launched a £9 million Scottish Ultra Low Emission Bus Scheme (SULEBS).
Date announced
August 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Over 2020/21 we awarded £50.7 million through the Scottish Ultra Low Emission Bus Scheme and unlocked over £71 million of private investment, to support 272 new zero emission buses and associated infrastructure. 207 of those buses have been manufactured in Scotland, supporting green jobs.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
N/A.
Timeframe and expected next steps
The Scottish Ultra Low Emission Bus Scheme has been replaced by the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund.
Policy
In the context of the National Transport Strategy Delivery Plan and Transport Act, we will examine the scope for climate change policies, in relation to buses, across the public sector in high-level transport legislation strategies and policies.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Section 34 of the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 came into force in June 2022, meaning local authorities now have the power to run their own bus services.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Regulations Public Service Vehicles (Registration of Local Services)(Provision of Service Information)(Scotland) coming into force on 1 April 2023.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Regulations for BSIPs and Franchising are expected to be laid later in 2023.
We are engaging with local authorities, operators, and others to inform this complex suite of legislation.
Policy
We will work to align government financial support of £120 million over the next 5 years with private sector investment to drive forward a fully decarbonised future for Scotland’s bus fleet and support the Scottish supply chain.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
£62m in capital funding was awarded through the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund (ScotZEB). An additional £500,000 Market Transition Scheme (MTS) was made available to support SME operators prepare for decarbonisation by developing consortia and collaborative business models with private sector financiers.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
276 ZEBs and their supporting infrastructure were supported through ScotZEB. 19 bus and coach operators are being supported through the MTS to explore their options for decarbonisation and to develop innovative bids which will establish the step-change in the market required to accelerate the uptake of ZEBs and to remove the need for government subsidy. The Bus Decarbonisation Taskforce (BDT) held 6 meetings between Nov 2021 and Aug 2022 to establish the challenges the sector faces and an agreed route to overcome those challenges. The Taskforce published the Pathway to Zero Emission Buses, which demonstrated a joint commitment to achieve a zero-emission future for the bus sector.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Next steps are being considered as to how to help the bus sector transition to zero-emissions once final reports from the Market Transition Scheme have been assessed.
Outcome 5: We will work to decarbonise scheduled flights within Scotland by 2040.
Policy
We will aim to create the world’s first zero emission aviation region in partnership with Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL). This will include taking action to decarbonise airport operations in the HIAL region.
Date announced
Green New Deal 2019
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
HIAL recently published its Sustainability Strategy, which covered key objectives such as introducing a programme of activity to decarbonise airport operations, infrastructure and flights, and incentivising low carbon aircraft at HIAL airports.
HIAL will publish a Net Zero Roadmap in 2023, which will set out a programme of carbon reduction measures required to achieve Net Zero by 2040.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
HIAL hosted a stakeholder event in March to understand how the Highlands and Islands zero emission ambition can best be progressed.
HIAL will publish a Net Zero Roadmap in 2023.
Transport Scotland will have regular contact with HIAL to discuss progress, and provide support where appropriate.
Policy
We will begin trialling low or zero emission planes in 2021.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The sustainable aviation test environment (SATE) project allows for the testing and demonstration of low/ zero emissions craft and is playing an important role in creating the zero-emission aviation region.
HIAL is leading on the SATE project and was recently awarded funding for the next phase of this project.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
This SG commitment could be considered as delivered, as a test flight took place in 2021 (attended by the then Minister for Transport)
SATE project is ongoing and we receive regular updates from HIAL on progress being made.
Policy
The Scottish Government will continue to engage with Aviation sector to encourage sustainable growth post COVID-19.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The SG engages with the aviation sector in line with our PfG commitment to work with Scotland’s airports to help restore lost connectivity, and grow international connectivity, while not returning to previous levels of emissions. Transport Scotland continues to lead on our route development work, which involves close working with Scotland's airports.
Our forthcoming aviation strategy will consider further measures the SG could take to help improve connectivity while reducing the emissions from aviation.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
N/A
Timeframe and expected next steps
N/A
Policy
Explore the potential for the purchase of zero/low emission aircraft by the Scottish Government, for lease back to operators, with more detailed assessment in the forthcoming Aviation Strategy.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
This option was explored in our consultation on the aviation strategy. While there was some public support, most aviation stakeholders questioned whether the SG should be involved in buying aircraft. However, we will continue to explore this option in the aviation strategy as the situation may change when zero/low emission aircraft become available.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
We will continue to explore this option as part of the aviation strategy.
Policy
Explore options for incentivising the use of more sustainable aviation fuel as we develop our Aviation Strategy, recognising that significant levers in this area are reserved.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
SAF was also considered in the aviation strategy consultation, with strong support for its increased production. Scottish Enterprise is conducting a SAF mapping exercise to understand the potential Scottish SAF supply chain.
The UKG intends to introduce a SAF mandate and is exploring options for providing support with the additional costs of SAF. The SG will wish to be clearer on progress before considering its own possible options, in what is an issue where some relevant levers are reserved.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
SAF will continue to be explored as part of the aviation strategy. We will also write to the UKG to question its position on introducing a price stability mechanism for SAF, which is something the sector has consistently encouraged.
Outcome 6: Proportion of ferries in Scottish Government ownership which are low emission has increased to 30% by 2032.
Policy
Continue to examine the scope for utilising hybrid and low carbon energy sources in the public sector marine fleet as part of our vessel replacement programme.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
The proportion of ferries which are low emissions is still 8% as no new, low emission vessels have entered the fleet. There are currently 3 low emission vessels in a fleet of 40.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No indicators / milestones have been set for which there is progress data.
Milestones will be set through the ferries decarbonisation plan.
Timeframe and expected next steps
The first vessel of the Small Vessel Replacement Program is currently programmed for delivery at the end of 2025, with 6 further vessels being delivered at 4-6 month intervals including 2 in 2026. The completion of Phase 1 will see 7 vessels of the existing fleet replaced with low emission, electric vessels by 2029, increasing the proportion of SG owned ferries which are low emission to 25%.
The second Phase of the SVRP, which is anticipated to begin toward the end of this year, will see 4 more vessels replaced with low emission vessels.
As outlined in the Long Term Plan for Vessels and Ports, several other vessels are planned for replacement before 2032 and we will continue to explore all options available to decarbonise the fleet. These options will be set out in the Low Carbon Plan being produced as part of the Islands Connectivity Plan.
Policy
Working with the UK Government to support proposals at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to significantly lower shipping carbon emissions in the global sector, including the option of introducing a global levy on marine fuel to fund research in cleaner technologies and fuels.
Date announced
2020/21 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
UKG has initiated a number of Calls for Evidence and consultations to explore options for decarbonising the maritime sector. TS officials are working closely with DfT on evaluating the responses and possible next steps. Shipping policy is reserved, UKG are the member state in IMO, so SG does not have a direct role.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No
Timeframe and expected next steps
Officials will continue to work closely with DfT.
UK are one of the most proactive members of IMO in pushing for ambitious global shipping legislation. Scottish and wider UK shipping stakeholders agree with this approach, as they support a global solution to decarbonising the shipping sector.
Outcome 7: By 2032 low emission solutions have been widely adopted at Scottish ports.
Policy
Working with individual ports and the British Ports Association to consider a process for encouraging shared best practice initiatives for reducing emissions across the sector.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Official continue to work with ports and the British Ports Association (BPA) through regular meetings to share best practice and encourage new initiatives.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones
No
Timeframe and expected next steps been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Challenges such as the technology gap are very evident in this policy. But many ports are implementing emission reducing solutions that are available such as shore power and installing solar farms.
Policy
Working with the ports sector and with its statutory consultees through the Harbour Order process to ensure future port developments are environmentally underpinned.
Date announced
CCPu 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Officials continue to work with the port sector and environment statuary consultees such as SEPA, Marine Scotland and Nature Scot . Our environment statuary consultees are fully consulted in the Harbour Order process.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones
No
Timeframe and expected next steps been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Consultation with these consultees is written into Harbour Order legislation.
Outcome 8: Scotland’s passenger rail services will be decarbonised by 2035
Policy
Our commitment to decarbonise (the traction element of) Scotland’s railways by 2035 will be delivered through investment in electrification and complementary alternative traction systems. Transport Scotland has published the Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan (July 2020) which will be updated as appropriate. Work is ongoing by industry partners to develop the initial schemes.
Date announced
2020-2021 PfG
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Good progress on decarbonising Scotland’s Railway continues to be made.
Works to decarbonise the Barrhead Line have commenced. Orders have been placed for six new electrical Feeder Stations to support decarbonisation through electrification.
The schemes to electrify the Fife Circle route, Borders Line and East Kilbride are in design development.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No decarbonisation schemes have reached commissioning stage since publication of the 2020-2021 PfG.
We continue to develop the programme for decarbonisation. We expect the Barrhead Line to be decarbonised through electrification by December 2023.
The schemes to electrify the Fife Circle route, Borders Line and East Kilbride are in design development.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
No decarbonisation schemes have reached commissioning stage since publication of the 2020-2021 PfG.
We continue to develop the programme for decarbonisation. We expect the Barrhead Line to be decarbonised through electrification by December 2023.
The schemes to electrify the Fife Circle route, Borders Line and East Kilbride are in design development.
Timeframe and expected next steps
The Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan is due to be updated in 2023. This update will reflect future anticipated budget allocations.
The next milestone in decarbonising Scotland’s Railway will completion of electrification of the Barrhead Line. This is due to complete in December 2023.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Deliverable
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Progress To Date
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Produce 3 new reports in the 3-year project duration.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
In development
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Design and deliver 8 industry events (4 in-person, 4 digital) by the end of the contract (est. June 2025).
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
- In person launch event at Progress Rail’s site in South Queensferry on 17 August, 2022
- Event programme being finalised with a range of companies and RIA Scotland for events over the remainder of the contract.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Engage with demand-side companies in the first 12 months of the contract to understand levels of demand.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Actively engaging with several suppliers in the rail sector currently:
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Deliver up to 6 supply chain workshops (3 in-person, 3 digital) over the life of the project.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Actively engaging with several suppliers in the rail sector currently.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
150 Scottish companies supported over the 3-year project.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
51 1-2-1 meetings held.
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Update 2 existing Rail CB reports over the life of the contract.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
In progress
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Policy
We will establish an international rail cluster in Scotland to unlock supply chain opportunities using the interest at Longannet as a catalyst. This will be built around existing strengths in rail in Scotland and will seek to enhance the innovation and supply chain in the decarbonisation of our rolling stock and wider network.
Date announced
Part of Rail Services Decarbonisation Action Plan July 2020
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
Following the successful completion of Phase 1, the second phase – which began in July 2022 – will see a strong focus on skills development for the first year as well as continuing cluster of businesses and research centres in Scotland, collaborating to deliver a world-class manufacturing capability in low-carbon rail transport with both online and in person events and workshops.
To date 737 individuals have registered with the rail cluster project, 552 registered companies and 254 SME’s registered.
Furthermore, the rail cluster has been accepted as a partner of the European Rail Cluster Initiative providing links to 2000 SME’s across Europe.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Manage and provide secretariat to the Rail Skills Leadership Group in Year One only.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Completed
Timeframe and expected next steps
Contract is due to complete summer 2025.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
Monthly progress reports.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
In progress
Policy
Continue to deliver our Rail Freight Strategy.
Date announced
CCP 2018
Progress on implementation since time of last report / CCPu
On-going work, in conjunction with industry partners and third-party investors, continues to grow rail freight on the Scottish network. This work is achieving results and a number of new rail freight services have started over the last year. Also, in August 2022, Highland Spring’s new rail freight facility at Blackford was opened by the former First Minister. This project, which was facilitated by SG policies and investment, will remove a minimum of 10.02 million lorry miles from Scotland’s roads in the first 10 years of operation bringing significant environmental benefits.
We have also been working with rail industry partners to develop regulatory targets for the next rail control period which runs from 2024 to 2029. These targets, which were published in the Scottish Ministers’ High Level Output Specification (HLOS) on 3 February 2023, include a requirement to grow rail freight by 8.7% with an expectation that 10% may be achievable.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
There are no official annual targets or indicators but Network Rail monitors the targets for the current control period (2019 – 2024) on a quarterly basis. These targets include a requirement to grow rail freight on the Scottish network by 7.5% by 2024. This target was on track to be met but factors including industrial action, the cost of living crisis and slowing down of investment may impact on the ability to achieve it.
Have any implementation indicators / milestones been set for this policy? If so, most recent data for progress against these.
There are no official annual targets or indicators but Network Rail monitors the targets for the current control period (2019 – 2024) on a quarterly basis. These targets include a requirement to grow rail freight on the Scottish network by 7.5% by 2024. This target was on track to be met but factors including industrial action, the cost of living crisis and slowing down of investment may impact on the ability to achieve it.
Timeframe and expected next steps
There are no defined or specific timescales for completing the actions. Network Rail's regulatory targets have their own associated milestones and timescales and evaluation will take place at the end of the control period (March 2024).
In addition, Network Rail is expected to publish its Strategic Business Plan by summer this year. This will outline how it will achieve the targets set out in the HLOS for 2024 -2029, including the rail freight growth target.
Contact
Email: climate.change@gov.scot
There is a problem
Thanks for your feedback