Monday 13 January 2020

Haulage Association admits UK freight will be one of the most difficult sectors to decarbonise

The paper from the RHA calls on the UK government to develop a 'freight roadmap,' which delivers what it refers to as stepping stones needed to achieve a net zero carbon future.

The issue of decarbonising freight, says the RHA, needs a coherent international and national response.  The RHA notes it is important the freight and logistics sector is on the front foot to shape the reforms necessary.

"How the change is managed politically and economically over the next 25 years will be challenging," said RHA chief executive, Richard Burnett.

"Our strategy sets out an approach that will ensure sensible, evidence-based and pragmatic policies are in place to support investment in the green technology needed.

"The time for talking about the environment is over. We need clear global action to tackle climate change and I am determined the UK logistics sector will do its bit.

"The government must ensure supportive policies exist that give our members the confidence to plan for a green future. By contrast, policy 'mis-steps,' such as clean air zones which have undermined trust, must be avoided."

The RHA is calling for an Eliminate-Minimise-Offset approach. This means eliminating emissions where possible. If that is not practical emissions should be minimised and any emissions that can’t be eliminated should be offset. As such offsetting should be a priority while permanent net zero solutions are found. The RHA says it is vital there is an understanding about how any offsetting moves should work and what would count as offsetting and what wouldn’t.