Northern Ireland"s car dependency: the environmental impact revealed
- Only 2% of journeys in Northern Ireland are made by public transport, indicating a heavy reliance on cars.
- Experts call for a transition to sustainable transport and urban redesign to reduce travel needs.
- Current transport budgets lack specific targets for emissions reduction, making it difficult to meet climate goals.
Northern Ireland has been slow to reduce its emissions, with only 2% of journeys made by public transport. The reliance on cars has been a longstanding issue, dating back to the 1950s, leading to significant impacts on air quality and urban structure. Experts emphasize the need for a shift towards sustainable transport options, such as walking, cycling, and public transport, alongside redesigning urban areas to minimize travel needs. Current transport budgets allocate only 10% to active travel, highlighting a lack of specific targets for reducing transport emissions under the Climate Change Act. The introduction of Grand Central Station aims to enhance rail services and integrate various transport modes, but challenges remain in balancing rural transport needs with financial constraints. Buses are the primary public transport option available in every town, yet the overall transport system requires modernization to meet future demands and environmental goals.