Pathway to net zero emissions from transportation in the United Kingdom 2020-2050

In late 2021 the UK government published its Net Zero Strategy, which set out how the country plans to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Transportation currently accounts for the largest share of UK greenhouse gas emissions. However, as of 2019, transportation emissions had fallen by just five percent, relative to 1990 levels. In comparison, energy supply emissions fell more than 65 percent during this period. Thus, cutting transportation emissions will be hugely important to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. By 2030, domestic transportation emissions could need to be cut by between 34 and 45 percent by 2030, relative to 2019 levels.

Policies announced to reduce emissions include, among others, ending the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030, introducing a zero emissions vehicle mandate from 2024, investing in local transportation systems, and building more cycle lanes.