Consultation: UK Department for Transport publishes call for evidence on Carbon Offsetting in Transport

The Department for Transport has published a call for evidence on Carbon Offsetting in Transport.

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/carbon-offsetting-in-transport-a-call-for-evidence

The focus of the call for evidence is on ticketed transport – ie.,  buses, coaches, trains, planes and ships – although they are also interested in schemes for private vehicles as well. The three main issues being looked at are:

1. Is sufficient information being provided on the environmental impacts of travel and whether consumer purchasing decisions can be modified by including carbon emission data in the purchasing process.
2. Can carbon offsetting programmes help tackle climate change and how can consumers be confident that programmes are actually  mitigating their impact on the environment
3. How can the number of consumers taking part on carbon offsetting schemes be maximised and what is the role of government

 
While the call for evidence discusses the issue in the context of voluntary offsetting programmes, there is the prospect that this could be a precursor to a mandatory scheme. Responses close on 26 September 2019 and can be provided via an online form or by emailing written responses to [email protected] 

Whilst the WTA will not in this instance be responding formally, if a WTA member wishes the WTA to provide a supporting statement to a response then please let us know prior to the 16th September 2019.