The Committee on Climate Change is an independent non-departmental public body, formed under the Climate Change Act to advise the United Kingdom and devolved Governments and Parliaments on tackling and preparing for climate change.

In its annual report to parliament, released yesterday (25/05/2020), the committee recommends a wide range of measures for the government. Some of the transport and infrastructure relevant recommendations made to the Department for Transport include:

• Invest in walking and cycling infrastructure and public transport, car sharing and Mobility-as-a-Service to reduce car travel demand.
• Bring forward sales ban date for new petrol/diesel vehicles to 2032 at the latest.

In to bringing forward the date for ending sales of new petrol/diesel vehicles it is also proposed that the government increases taxes on fuel which is especially effective when oil prices are low as is currently the case. 

Recommendations made to all government departments include:

• Integrate Net Zero into all policy making, and ensure procurement strategies are consistent with the UK's climate objectives. 
• Demonstrate actions that address all of the more urgent risks set out in the second UK climate change risk assessment relevant to the Department.

Commenting on the delayed COP26 now due to take place in Scotland in 2021 the committee says that there is a policy deficit in the government's plans to decarbonise surface transport. It urges the government to follow through with their ambitions to decarbonise surface transport by delivering strong policies that supports the ambition, especially in the context of COVID-19 recovery and social distancing. 

Further in terms of the recovery from COVID-19's impact on efforts to achieve Net Zero the committee warns against short-term economic solutions that undermine efforts to cut global emissions. There is a danger that short-term recovery solutions turn in to long-term carbon intensive activity and behaviour. The committee identifies an opportunity for the government in reducing car demand by facilitating and encouraging a move towards home working as well.  

Five measures for the COVID-19 recovery that the committee refers to as having 'clear economic, social and environmental benefits':

• Investments in low-carbon and climate-resilient infrastructure.
• Support for reskilling, retraining and research for a net-zero, climate-resilient economy.
• Upgrades to our homes and other buildings ensuring they are fit for the future.
• Action to make it easy for people to walk, cycle, and work remotely.
• Tree planting, peatland restoration, green spaces and other green infrastructure.

Source: https://www.theccc.org.uk