FirstGroup plc has released its inaugural Climate Transition Plan, outlining a comprehensive strategy to drastically reduce emissions and promote sustainable travel across the nation.
With a focus on shifting reliance from private cars to public transport, FirstGroup aims to play a pivotal role in the UK’s journey towards a greener future. The plan includes firm commitments to science-based targets, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and a pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Commenting, FirstGroup Chief Executive Officer Graham Sutherland said: “As a leading public transport operator, we have a critical role to play in the climate transition. Investing in decarbonisation, enhancing our operations and driving modal shift reduces our environmental impact and supports growth and prosperity in the communities we serve. It is also a key driver of our commercial success. The publication of our first Climate Transition Plan setting out our structured and ambitious approach to achieve this is an important step in our sustainability journey.”
Key targets and initiatives:
- Significant Emissions Reductions:
- A 63% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by the end of FY 2035 (from FY 2020).
- A 20% reduction in absolute Scope 3 emissions from fuel and energy-related activities.
- Ensuring 75% of suppliers have science-based targets by FY 2028.
- Investment in Electric Buses:
- Over £300 million invested in decarbonising the bus fleet and infrastructure.
- More than 650 zero-emission buses in regional operations, and over 300 in London.
- Ongoing electrification of bus depots across the UK.
- Expansion of Rail Services:
- Growth of open access rail services, including new routes and modern, low-emission trains.
- Continued investment in fleets such as those used by Lumo and Hull Trains.
- Working with the Department for transport to decarbonise contracted train operating companies.
- Driving Modal Shift:
- Encouraging the public to switch from cars to buses and trains.
- Improving customer experience through enhanced services and digital technologies.
FirstGroup’s plan highlights the progress already made, with significant investments in electric vehicles and infrastructure. The company also emphasizes its commitment to collaborating with local partners and other organisations to promote sustainable transport solutions.
The company’s rail division is also making strides, with open access operators like Lumo and Hull Trains demonstrating the potential for low-emission rail travel. FirstGroup is also working with the Department for Transport on decarbonising its contracted train operating companies.
The full Climate Transition Plan is available here.
Image credit: First Group plc
