Green buses prioritised in Scotland’s low carbon pledge

As part of her Programme for Government, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced an additional £16.7 million to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles as an attractive, cost-effective alternative to those traditionally run on petrol and diesel.

Having pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the electrification of the road network last year, Sturgeon said the £16.7 million will be invested to significantly increase the number of green buses in use in Scotland, with £1.7 million specifically set aside for this, and enhance access to electric charging points in homes, businesses and public spaces. £15 million is being invested in new charging infrastructure, installing more than 1,500 new electric charge points.

The First Minister also discussed an expansion of the Switched on Towns and Cities initiative will also help create 20 new ‘electric towns’ by 2025 to support local communities to increase electric vehicle uptake.

Speaking at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service headquarters, Sturgeon said: “Through the package of support we’re announcing in this year’s Programme for Government, as well as our continued investment of £1 billion a year in low carbon and public transport, more people will be able to play their part in putting Scotland at the forefront of low carbon travel.
 
“As part of our public fleet I’m pleased our emergency services are playing a leading role in adopting low emission vehicles – setting an example for other parts of the public and private sectors. Through continued investment, and work to encourage communities to embrace the social change required, we can make our towns and cities more desirable places to live and work in, and develop a sustainable future for younger generations.”