Scottish Policy context
There is widespread recognition that we need to promote more active, healthier, less environmentally damaging lifestyles.
Scottish Government policy consistently promotes the value of active travel (walking and cycling for everyday journeys) for delivering health, environmental, economic and social benefits:
Low Carbon Scotland: Meeting the Emissions Reduction Targets 2010-2022
‘The next decade holds enormous potential to make significant progress into reducing road transport emissions through electric and other low carbon vehicles, and widening the choice in low carbon modes of travel available to individuals.’
‘We recognise the important role that promoting cycling and walking can have both in reducing emissions, improving air quality and contributing to improved health by increasing physical activity levels.’
Preventing Overweight & Obesity in Scotland: a route map towards healthy weight
‘One of the most effective ways to [expend energy to maintain healthy weight] in a busy day is to reduce reliance on motorised transport, changing our means of everyday travel to walking and cycling.’
‘Walking and cycling are important modes of travel, offering a more sustainable alternative to the car, making a positive contribution to the overall character of a place, public health, social interaction and to tackling climate change through reductions in carbon emissions.’
It is clear therefore that active lifestyles would contribute to the Scottish Government’s strategic objectives and help to reverse the negative trends outlined above. And yet active travel does not enjoy the same level of political support as other transport modes.