Written by: Brian O’Rourke, CEO and Co-Founder of CitySwift. 

Whilst the expansion of ULEZ is a step in the right direction to help fight against climate change, if we are to adequately protect the environment and people's health, we need to go further than low emission zones and more cycle lanes. 

We need supporting policies in place that encourage cleaner modes of transportation.

Public transport, and buses in particular, must continue to evolve and improve at a time when bus lanes and ‘car-free zones’ are no longer enough to tackle the climate emergency we are facing. 

For buses in particular, utilising data and AI can boost punctuality by 15%, which means operators can achieve a 7.5% increase in passenger demand. Furthermore, having smart technology in place in cities enables public transport networks to be more reliable and secure, giving them the ability to respond quickly to evolving challenges and requirements, including busy commuting periods and seasonal issues. 

Digitising infrastructure can realise operational savings for our public transport sector, while also improving accessibility and efficiency for passengers and reducing the adverse effects

of climate change.

Public transport systems have a tremendous impact on our ability to cut emissions not just in London but in the UK. We must begin to focus on targeted investment in transport and infrastructure to start shaping our cities and ensuring they serve the people within

them.