Go-Ahead Group plans to only be operating zero emission buses by 2035
Go-Ahead Group has set out a strategy to cut emissions by 75% by 2035, and become a fully carbon neutral company by 2045.
The company said the targets will be achieved through a combination of investment in zero-carbon technology, a crackdown on waste and a significant increase in reuse and recycling of materials. Changes to Go-Ahead’s business will be accompanied by initiatives to encourage active travel, and the company has called on the government to encourage a shift from car use to walking, cycling and public transport.
Go-Ahead plans to convert its entire 5,000-strong bus fleet to zero emission by 2035 and make improvements to air quality by 2025 through a 17% drop in carbon monoxide emissions, a 49% cut in hydrocarbons, a 63% fall in nitrogen oxides and a 55% cut in particulate matter from vehicles. It also seeks to reduce water use by 2025 through a significant reduction in leakage, together with ‘responsible management in all operations,’ and make a ‘significant improvement in energy efficiency at all Go-Ahead premises by 2035.’
Finally, Go-Ahead will attempt to reduce overall waste volumes and recycle 60% of waste by 2025.
David Brown, CEO of Go-Ahead Group, said: “Climate change is the number one challenge facing society and in order to address it, we must make radical changes to the way we travel. If we’re serious about protecting the health of our planet, then businesses such as Go-Ahead must show leadership.
“Our climate change plan is ambitious but deliverable, and is consistent with international goals of limiting any increase in global temperature to 1.5°C. We will play our part by decarbonising our business and by investing in environmentally sustainable technology."
