High-speed rail plans 'need to be adjusted to reduce emissions'

Date: 8/4/2011

A team of charities has highlighted that the government's plans for a high-speed rail network need to change if it is to reduce carbon emissions.

The group, which includes Civic Voice and Friends of the Earth, has outlined its recommendations for the HS2 network, reports Sarah Townsend in an article for Regeneration and Renewal.

Explaining that it needs to form part of a wide transportation plan, the charities claim the network is "not part of any comprehensive long-term transport strategy or nationally agreed priorities".

This, it highlights, contrasts the schemes taking place in other countries.

The charter laid out by the charity group suggests that the government's plans should outline exactly how the network will reduce carbon emissions.

"High-speed rail can only help if it's in a proper policy framework which ensures people move from car and plane onto the train", comments Policy Director of Greenpeace Doug Parr.

Meanwhile, a recent report from NASA showed that stricter emissions controls are needed in order to protect the environment and maintain public health.

Published by Nick Anderson