Britain’s traffic transition towards sustainability: the road to sustainable travel

What is the course about?

This course investigates how Britain is attempting to shift toward sustainable, low-carbon transport—and asks what, if anything, it can adapt from the strategies developed within the European Union. We begin by contextualising Britain’s historical dependency on private car travel and uneven investment in public transport, especially when compared with EU member states and countries further afield.

Key issues include: infrastructure funding, public attitudes, EV transitions, cycling and pedestrianisation policies, and how differing governance structures shape results. We’ll also assess to what extent EU successes are transferable or culturally embedded—and whether post-Brexit Britain still collaborates or diverges from these continental practices.

What will we cover?

• Britain's transport history: privatisation, car dependency, and policy inertia.
• EU strategies for low-carbon mobility: public transport, modal shift, and emissions regulation.
• Cycling and walking infrastructure: how Dutch and Danish models evolved.
• Vehicle electrification: incentives, barriers, and urban charging networks.
• ULEZ and congestion schemes: London vs. foreign cities.
• Post-Brexit governance and sustainability: divergence or informal alignment?
• Cultural and political barriers to policy transfer across borders.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Describe the major challenges facing the UK in reducing transport-related emissions
• Analyse the strengths and limitations of UK government strategies such as the Transport Decarbonisation Plan and Net Zero commitments
• Assess how public attitudes, political choices, and regional inequalities affect Britain’s progress toward sustainable mobility
• Identify specific European transport policies that could be adapted to the UK context and evaluate their feasibility given the UK’s infrastructure, governance, and political climate

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is at an introductory level and is suitable for those new to the subject as well as those who have some familiarity with the topics to be covered. A good grasp of English to keep up with the course and participate fully is necessary. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will be delivered through a blend of tutor-led talks and discussions. You will be encouraged to actively participate, share your perspectives, and engage critically with the material. Contributions to group dialogue are welcomed as a key part of the learning experience, and for a collaborative environment where diverse viewpoints can be explored and debated constructively. 

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no extra costs for this course, though you may find it helpful to bring a notebook or electronic device to take notes during sessions.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The tutor will share their other courses with you, and the Politics & Economics section of the website provides a comprehensive list of related subjects.