Workers across the country are now being urged to return to work as Boris Johnson has eased lockdown measures, but by doing so, it may be a catalyst to undoing much of the change that has led to positive climate and pollution changes in the past few months.
In a recent post we explored a recent story in which industry leaders urged the government to prioritise an economic recovery that aligns with the climate change goals – but there are fears this hurry back to work may have adverse effects.
Alongside a changing attitude as social distancing becomes normal behaviour, the government have also urged workers to avoid public transport where possible, but countless studies have shown the benefit of public transport on the environment relative to the use of personal transport. Over the course of lockdown measures, use of the rail network in London alone dropped by over 90%, and whilst information on private vehicle use is still not widely known, it will have certainly offset these figures:
There had already been growing concerns that a U-turn could be apparent in the drop in emissions following a return to normalcy – increasing use of personal transport may accelerate the rate in which the changes observed during the pandemic either return to the levels they had previously been at, or as some expect possibly make it worse.
Whilst there have been strides made towards making electric vehicles more affordable to the general public, the auto-industry has also been hit hard by the spread of the coronavirus which is more dangerous for the EV industry as it is still young without widespread consumer support. Alongside this, is the realisation that this period may not be a successful time to push electric alternatives, as many are more focussed on essentials than luxury goods.
If the UK is to reach targets to reduce petrol and diesel vehicles on the road, replacing them with electric vehicles, encouraging safe use of public transport, despite the current risks of doing so, may be vital. Utility Trade Group can help with any aspect of renewable energy, including the provision of EV charging points. If we can help you, then please get in touch today.
