Research Highlights

Climate change mitigation through innovations in the UK road passenger transportation sector

DATE: September 03, 2025

The Science Objective

To identify zero-tailpipe-emission sustainable transport energy options available for the UK coach and charter sector and to examine the barriers that limit the adoption and widespread uptake of low-carbon transportation solutions.

Approach

The project employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sector. Questionnaires are distributed to a representative sample of UK coach and charter operators to collect broad, data-driven insights. These findings are then explored in greater depth through semi-structured interviews, generating rich, detailed qualitative data that reveal the underlying factors influencing the adoption of low-carbon transport solutions.

Impact

The UK coach and charter sector currently faces significant knowledge gaps and a lack of clear strategies for transitioning to zero-tailpipe-emission technologies. This research helps bridge that gap by delivering accessible, independent, and industry-relevant insights that connect academic expertise with real-world industry needs. By providing actionable guidance, the project supports informed decision-making and paves the way for a more sustainable, low-carbon future for the sector.

Summary

This study explores the availability of zero-tailpipe-emission transport options and the barriers to their adoption within the UK coach and charter sector. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining sector-wide surveys with in-depth interviews, the research uncovers a limited understanding and lack of strategic planning for the transition to low-carbon technologies. By delivering clear, independent, and practical insights that connect industry and academia, the project seeks to bridge this knowledge gap and guide the sector toward a sustainable, zero-emission future.

 

Team Members

Terence R Johnson (Student)

Terence R Johnson (Student)

University of Birmingham

Transport Energy Infrastructure

Margaret Carol Bell (Advisor)

Margaret Carol Bell (Advisor)

Newcastle University

Department of Transportation and the Environment

Dilum Dissanayake (Advisor)

Dilum Dissanayake (Advisor)

University of Birmingham

Transport Energy Infrastructure

Conferences

  1. T. Johnson, D. Dissanayake, T. Nochta, M. Bell (2025) Climate change mitigation through innovations in the UK road passenger transport sector, with attention to the introduction of zero-tailpipe emission fuels and efficient transport systems, UTSG conference, 25-27 June 2025, Dublin
  2. T. Johnson, D. Dissanayake, T. Nochta, M. Bell (2025) Climate change mitigation through innovations in the UK road passenger transportation sector, with attention to lower emission Fuel types, CLEETS 2nd Annual Meeting and SRI Congress, June 16-20, Chicago.

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