Scottish Government falling behind on car reduction target, says auditor
The Scottish Government has made minimal progress and is unlikely to meet its climate change target of reducing all car use, a highly critical report from auditors has said.
A new report from Audit Scotland has cast serious doubt on the Scottish Government’s ability to meet its target of reducing car use by 20% by 2030, citing a lack of leadership and a clear strategy.
Despite assurances from First Minister John Swinney last year that the target remained achievable, the report highlights minimal progress and questions whether the Government remains fully committed to the goal.
Since the pandemic, car use has returned to pre-Covid levels, while public transport numbers have declined.
The report also notes that increased investment in active travel—such as cycling and walking infrastructure—has not necessarily translated into a reduction in car journeys.
Audit Scotland states: “It is not clear if the Scottish Government remains committed to the target as key documents remain in draft form, there is no costed delivery plan or measurable milestones, and arrangements for monitoring and scrutinising progress are insufficient.”
Transport remains Scotland’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 28% of total emissions.
However, instead of strengthening efforts to reduce car use, the Government last year scrapped a trial lifting peak-time rail fares, citing its £40 million cost.
Auditor General Stephen Boyle warned: “It’s now unlikely the Government will achieve its ambition, so it needs to be clear how this will affect its wider net zero commitments.”
Green MSP Mark Ruskell described the report as a “wake-up call”, calling for cheaper train and bus fares to encourage people to shift towards public transport.
Jamie Livingstone, head of Oxfam Scotland, added: “With just five years left, we cannot afford further delays.
"Urgent investment is needed to make public transport the easy and affordable choice.”