24 October 2024
International Day of Climate Action is more than just raising awareness – it’s about mobilising efforts to combat climate change. It urges everyone, from governments to grassroots communities, to advocate for policies that reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy, and protect our natural ecosystems.
The latest scientific reports paint a concerning picture: rising global temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and significant biodiversity loss. The impacts of climate change are already being felt across the globe, threatening food security, health, and livelihoods.
In the UK, transport is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 28% of the nation’s carbon emissions.
In 2021, a staggering 91% of emissions from domestic transport originated from road vehicles, totalling 100 MtCO2e. The primary culprits were cars and taxis, responsible for 52% of these emissions (57 MtCO2e), followed by Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) at 20% (21 MtCO2e) and vans at 17% (18 MtCO2e).
Electric Vehicles offer a way to reduce carbon emissions, as they produce zero tailpipe emissions. In February 2024, the government said “the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is a crucial step towards achieving the UK’s net zero target.”
Especially when charged from renewable energy, their overall carbon footprint is significantly lower than that of traditional vehicles.
Curious about how much CO2 electric vehicles can save over their lifecycles compared to diesel and petrol cars? Check out this tool developed by Transport and Energy.
However, while UK total transport emissions dropped by 15% overall from 1990 to 2021, the CCC states that sales of both electric cars and vans will need to significantly ramp up to meet the UK’s carbon emissions target by 2030. Notably, while the installation rates of public charging points are currently on track, they need to triple by 2030 to support this transition.
The demand for EVs is on the rise, but is still relatively modest. Despite September 2024 marking a record month for EV sales in the UK, the market share for EVs year-to-date stands at only 18%.
“Even though I am an EV driver and I know that they are clean, quiet and great to drive, it will be a big challenge to bring the British public away from petrol and diesel and into electric vehicles. It will require planning, co-ordination and an awful lot of leadership from the Government.”
– Baroness Parminter, during the Lords ECC Debate in October 2024
This underscores the importance of organisations like ChargeUK, the REA, FairCharge, ZEMO, as well as ourselves. Together, we not only explore solutions but also advocate for policies that enhance the EV experience and counter misinformation about electric vehicles.
For the debunking of common EV myths, check out the Little Book of EV Myths.
At EVA England, we understand the significant impact that transport has on climate change and the vital role electric vehicles can play in mitigating this crisis. However, we also recognise that there are additional steps we can take in our daily lives.
This is why last week one of our team members, Sandrine, participated in a Carbon Literacy Project course. This engaging day of learning covered climate change, carbon footprints, and practical steps for making a difference.
The course we did was led by Lead with Sustainability, and provided insights specifically tailored to the automotive and transport sectors. It was a powerful reminder of how our daily choices, from energy use at home to the way we eat and our travel habits, can have an effect on the environment.
The course encouraged us to reflect on our behaviours and explore how we can implement changes in both our personal and professional lives. Armed with new insights, we are now looking at further carbon reduction initiatives.
Want to find out what your carbon footprint is? Visit https://footprint.wwf.org.uk/
There are so many meaningful actions we can take for our planet, whether it’s supporting local environmental initiatives, advocating for sustainable policies, reducing waste, or making conscious choices in our daily lives. Every effort counts!
In support of this effort, we’re excited to announce that Lead with Sustainability is offering an exclusive 50% discount on their course to five of our members, supporting their journey toward sustainability. For more details, please check the Members Area.