Bus companies unite to set vision to tackle climate change

Bus companies across Scotland are joining forces to set out a ‘Vision for 2030’ to help tackle the climate emergency.

In line with the Scottish Government’s target of becoming a net-zero society by 2045, industry businesses, manufacturers and operators believe buses can be part of the solution with a shift from private cars to sustainable transport.

Working alongside Transform Scotland, the One Bus Forum will hold its first full meeting in February at global manufacturer Alexander Dennis Limited’s premises in Falkirk.

Work is expected to conclude in April ahead of the forum’s campaign being set out.

First Bus managing director Andrew Jarvis, who will host the preliminary meeting, said: “First Bus are proud to be part of the One Bus Forum and the 2030 vision campaign to help show bus as a solution as we aim toward a net-zero carbon future.

“We have invested heavily in the areas we operate with new technology, new fleet investment and new innovations all aimed at helping encourage modal shift, speeding up journeys and improving on air quality at the same time.”

Sam Greer, regional director for Stagecoach, believes action must be taken to tackle road congestion and deliver more priority for buses.

He said: “The biggest opportunity to tackle the climate emergency and deliver cleaner air comes from incentivising people to switch from the car to more sustainable public transport and active travel.

“Combined with the multi-million-pound investments we are making in greener buses, smart technology, and better journeys, it is crucial there is action to tackle road congestion and deliver more priority for buses.

“We look forward to working with Transform Scotland, manufacturers, operators and our partners in government to maximise the power of the bus to benefit the country.”