In response to the Welsh Government's decision to suspend all major road building projects because of environmental concerns, Keith Jones, director of the Institution of Civil Engineers in Wales (ICE Wales Cymru) said:
"There is no plausible path to net zero without significant transport emissions reductions - reductions that need to start being delivered soon.
"Transport accounts for 17% of Wales's total carbon emissions, primarily from road vehicles.
"Globally, governments face difficult policy choices around constraining road transport demand without disadvantaging economic growth, certain geographies, industries, or populations.
"We need to invest in the ageing public transport asset base and low-carbon transport options to make the shift from cars practical and desirable. New road schemes will also need to consider how to manage the network more effectively rather than just adding capacity.
"The decision by the Welsh Government reflects these challenges, however it is essential that a wider assessment of the the transport system takes place to set out plans for improving public transport and active travel options."
Notes to editors
Please contact Maggie Eckel [email protected] for more information.
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