Road transport contributes 11.9% or about 4.8Gt to global CO2 emissions annually, with 60% from passenger vehicles (cars, motorcycles, buses) and 40% from road freight (lorries, trucks). Despite its smaller share, aviation still emits 0.6 billion tonnes of CO2 yearly, accounting for 2% of global emissions.
In Ireland, transport is the largest source of energy-related CO2 emissions, making up 40% of the country’s emissions in 2022 and marking the sector with the most significant growth in emissions since 2012. While transport-related air pollution has decreased by half since 1990 due to advancements in technology and stricter emission controls, the increasing number of vehicles continues to raise concerns over carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate emissions.
To address these issues, Ireland has ambitious plans: a target of 936,000 electric vehicles by 2030, the introduction of hybrid public buses in urban areas since 2019, and the development of over 200km of new cycling infrastructure. Great news for Ireland!
To start to rise to the challenges the Cultural and Creative Industries face in mitigating the environmental impacts of Travel & Transport, the below is a handy 10-step checklist, for individuals / sole traders OR for larger organisations:
| 1. | As a default, try to use video / conference calling to avoid unnecessary journeys. |
| 2. | Research local contractors and suppliers – choose local wherever possible. |
| 3. | Always require an EV when booking ground transport / taxis. |
| 4. | Promote more sustainable travel options in communications, e.g. social media posts about carsharing / carpooling, bus and coach tickets. |
| 5. | In your communications, both internal and outward-facing, emphasise more sustainable travel options (walking, cycling, public transport, coach), BEFORE car/driving information. |
| 6. | Create, and communicate to your staff, a sustainable travel policy. Aim to record all business/ organisational travel throughout the year, under the headings: mode of transport and distance travelled. |
| 7. | As part of your sustainable travel policy, aim for reduced production and infrastructure journeys. This can be done by paying particular attention to deliveries schedules during the planning phase. |
| 8. | In communications with artists, encourage the consideration of GHG emissions associated with their travel plans. |
| 9. | Consider or explore opportunities for partnerships with Electric Vehicle (EV) companies – resulting in promotional opportunities and discounted rates for your staff switching to EV. |
| 10. | Provide clear travel information on your website, e.g. a map of the surrounding area with the nearest rail stations, bus stops, and other local transport links clearly marked. Include links to bus timetables, or a map of near-by electric car charging points. Provide maps of safe cycle routes on the website and provide secure cycle storage at your event or venue. |
