Today E3 launched their inaugural webinar series Balanced Solutions for a Better World webinar series, a dynamic and solution-focused platform that brings together experts to explore pathways toward sustainable change. Chaired by Professor Karen Wiltshire, CRH Chair of Climate Science, the 2024-2025 series debuted today with Achieving Our Climate Goals in Transport, featuring Professor Brian Caulfield, a leading figure in transportation studies, the event delved into insights drawn from his recent work, particularly the EPA State of the Environment Report for 2024 and the Irish Climate Change Assessment. The discussions underscored the urgent need for transformative actions in the transport sector to align with climate goals.

The Importance of Transport in Climate Action

Professor Caulfield emphasised that transport plays a pivotal role in environmental sustainability, influencing emissions, air quality, social equity, and economic efficiency. Key points included:

  • Environmental Impact: Transport accounts for 21% of Ireland's total emissions, with road-based transport contributing 95% of this figure. This sector significantly affects air quality and community livability.

  • Social and Economic Aspects: Efficient transport systems can enhance social inclusion by reducing isolation and improving access to amenities. Economically, efficient transport mitigates congestion, which is projected to cost Dublin €1.5 billion annually by 2040.

Current Challenges in the Transport Sector

Despite its critical role, the seminar revealed concerning trends and challenges:

  • Rising Emissions: Recent data indicated a 2.7% increase in transport emissions in early 2024 compared to the previous year, highlighting the urgency of addressing this sector.

  • Stagnant Adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs): Sales of new battery electric vehicles plummeted by 27% in the first three quarters of 2024. This decline poses a significant threat to Ireland's climate policy, which relies heavily on increasing EV usage.

Infrastructure and Delivery Gaps

Professor Caulfield outlined the pressing need for infrastructure development to support sustainable transport:

  • Public Transport Expansion: Ireland must deliver substantial public transport infrastructure by 2042, including 18 kilometres of metro and 61 kilometres of light rail. The slow pace of delivery—evidenced by the 11-year timeline for just 4 kilometres of light rail—raises concerns about meeting climate targets.

The Urban-Rural Divide

A significant challenge facing the transport sector is the urban-rural divide:

  • Population Distribution: While Dublin houses about a quarter of the population, many rural areas struggle with access to public transport and amenities. The seminar highlighted the need for innovative solutions to connect these communities and reduce emissions from rural transport.

Vehicle Fleet Composition

Another area of concern is the composition of vehicles on the road:

  • SUV Proliferation: The increasing popularity of SUVs poses additional emissions challenges. Heavier SUVs can emit 20% more than standard petrol or diesel cars, negating the benefits of selling electric vehicles.

Moving Forward: Strategies for Improvement

To achieve sustainable transport goals, several strategies were proposed:

  • Enhanced Public Transport: Accelerate the delivery of public transport projects, particularly in urban areas, while developing tailored solutions for rural communities.

  • Promotion of Sustainable Vehicles: Reassess policies to incentivise the adoption of EVs and discourage the purchase of high-emission vehicles like SUVs.

  • Freight Decarbonisation: While there are signs of progress in decarbonising freight transport, continuous efforts are needed to sustain this trend.

Professor Caulfield’s reflections on the shift in public transport dynamics highlighted the critical nature of effective urban planning. The public transport landscape is evolving, with a marked decline in car usage in certain areas and a rise in public transport ridership. This trend not only alleviates congestion but also signals a growing acceptance of alternative modes of transport, a point that could inspire broader changes across the city.

The Necessity of Big Infrastructure Projects

The conversation quickly pivoted to the importance of large-scale infrastructure projects. Professor Caulfield emphasised that while community-level initiatives can yield immediate benefits, they cannot replace the need for substantial investments in public transport systems like light rail. Cities such as Cork and Galway stand at a crossroads; they can either repeat past mistakes with extensive road networks or embrace modern solutions that prioritise public transport and sustainable practices.

“Cork needs light rail, and there’s no two ways about that,” he insisted, highlighting a growing recognition that cities must adapt to current mobility demands to remain functional and sustainable.

The Challenge of Funding and Governance

However, the pathway to achieving these large-scale projects is fraught with challenges, primarily concerning funding and governance. Professor Caulfield noted the constraints faced by universities in producing enough qualified civil engineers, hinting at a broader systemic issue in the educational and professional sectors. “We need multiples of that,” he argued, emphasising the urgent need for skilled professionals to drive these projects forward.

Additionally, he praised Transport Minister Eamon Ryan for his transformative initiatives but acknowledged the slow progress of essential projects like the Metro. The bureaucratic hurdles and planning delays can be frustrating, leaving stakeholders in transport wondering when real change will come.

The Role of Public Engagement

The conversation underscored that successful transport reforms rely on robust public engagement. Professor Caulfield noted the need for citizens to take responsibility for their transport choices. It’s not just about providing better infrastructure; it’s about fostering a culture that embraces these changes. The example of Paris and its mayor, Anne Hidalgo, illustrates how effective leadership can galvanise public support for transformative initiatives. When citizens see that their needs and concerns are addressed, they are more likely to support changes, even those that require adjustments in their daily routines.

“We need a person that can champion our cities,” he stated, pointing to the significant impact of having a dedicated advocate for urban transport. This advocacy is crucial for overcoming resistance to change, especially in light of the opposition often voiced by sectors such as taxi drivers and car park owners.

The Need for Integrated Solutions

Ultimately, the discussion returned to the need for integrated solutions that balance legislative action with public sentiment. The goal should be to create a cohesive transport strategy that minimises reliance on personal vehicles while enhancing the appeal of public transport options.

Professor Caulfield’s insights underscored that while progress is being made, a concerted effort across all levels of governance and public engagement is necessary to overcome existing barriers. This multifaceted approach—combining infrastructure investment, community initiatives, and effective governance—will be vital in reshaping urban mobility for future generations.

Tackling Car Poverty

The conversation also touched on addressing inequality in access to transportation. Transportation is not merely about moving from point A to point B; it impacts job access, education, and health outcomes. To tackle car poverty, we need robust, affordable, and accessible public transport systems, along with significant investments in cycling and walking infrastructure.

People must view public transport as a viable and desirable option, not a last resort. To achieve this, subsidies for low-income families and incentives for using public transport, such as reduced fares or free travel on certain routes, should be considered.

The Role of Technology

Technology can play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable transport. Mobile apps providing real-time information on public transport options, as well as integrating cycling or walking into journeys, can enhance user experience. Community initiatives promoting shared transport options, such as carpooling or ride-sharing, could also be explored, as they reduce individual costs and lessen the overall number of vehicles on the road.

The Importance of Education

Education is crucial for changing perceptions around transport modes, especially among younger generations. Schools can incorporate lessons on environmental impact and the benefits of active travel—walking, cycling, and using public transport. Engaging local communities through workshops and outreach programs can promote awareness around air quality, carbon emissions, and personal health benefits associated with active transport.

While the challenges of transforming our transport systems are significant, they are not insurmountable. By investing in infrastructure, leveraging technology, promoting education, and framing the conversation around health and air quality, we can foster a more sustainable future. It requires a collective effort from government, businesses, and individuals alike to create a shift towards greener transport options.

As the speakers reflected on their insights, they left the audience with a message of hope: meaningful change is possible through collaboration, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of sustainability. The climate doesn’t care about elections or economies; immediate action is needed regardless of political cycles or financial considerations. The future of transport and the health of our planet depend on it.