Decarbonisation: a new RHA strategy

Decarbonisation: a new RHA strategy

17 Oct 2022 Posted By James Evison

The RHA has released its latest decarbonisation policy paper for commercial vehicles today highlighting that low carbon fuels should play a critical role on the journey to Net Zero.

The document, titled Eliminate-Minimise-Offset, outlines a number of practical asks to both the UK Government and industry to help commercial vehicle operators make the transition towards Net Zero.

Chief among the asks is our call the Government supports the use of low carbon fuels as a positive interim step towards achieving Net Zero. While we resolve the longer-term technical challenges to introduce zero emission commercial vehicles on to our roads, there are steps hauliers and coach operators can take now to slash their emissions through appropriately-sourced and regulated low carbon fuels.

We also ask the Government to look again at the “whole carbon lifecycle” of a vehicle as we believe a focus solely on zero tailpipe emissions distorts accountability.

The policy paper is one of three core campaigns for the RHA alongside Skills and Facilities and is released ahead of the Low Carbon Fuels Strategy promised by the UK Government for later this year.

Additionally, it calls for greater cooperative working amongst industry so that zero emission vehicles can be trialled by as many operators as possible. By working with commercial vehicle manufacturers and fuel providers, the RHA is determined to do its bit to accelerate the transition towards Net Zero.

Commenting, RHA MD Richard Smith said: “The RHA and the industry as a whole is working tirelessly to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint. But it’s not just a case of looking to the future, interim change is just as important.

“Low carbon fuels, examining vehicle carbon lifecycles and ensuring that the infrastructure is in place are all essential components to ensure that the transition is sustainable and successful.”

Read the report here