By Tom Austin-Morgan

As one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, transport has a significant role to play in the journey towards net zero. Achieving this ambition demands a multifaceted approach, with education being the cornerstone of these efforts. For highways and transportation engineers, ongoing education and professional development are essential tools in transforming practices and mindsets to embrace decarbonisation.

Education equips transportation professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to implement effective decarbonisation strategies. Understanding the science behind climate change and the specific impacts of transportation emissions is the first step. Practitioners must be aware of the urgent need to reduce carbon footprints and the potential consequences of inaction.

Moreover, education fosters innovation. By staying informed about the latest advancements in sustainable technologies and practices, professionals can identify and adopt new solutions that reduce emissions. For instance, knowledge about alternative fuels, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient infrastructure can significantly influence the decisions made by engineers, planners, and policymakers.

“The future of humanity and biodiversity is our biggest global challenge, wrapped up in the climate emergency,” explains Michael Bather, Senior Lecturer and Programme Director Civil Engineering at the University of Liverpool, and Chair of JBM (Joint Board of Moderators). “It is imperative that students are immersed in a culture of education which frames engineering as possibly unlocking solutions to global challenges, including sustainable development. JBM requires that sustainable development be integrated into existing teaching and learning and should clearly feature throughout the education programme.”

The JBM is made up of five engineering institutions, including CIHT. The board assesses and accredits university courses in civil engineering.

Image: Michael Bather, Senior Lecturer and Programme Director Civil Engineering, University of Liverpool; credit: Michael Bather.

Continuing professional development (CPD)

CPD is a vital mechanism through which transportation professionals can stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies. 

“CIHT – like all professional institutions – requires members to carry out CPD to ensure that [their] skills and knowledge keep up with the challenges facing the highways and transportation sector,” says Andrew Crudgington, Climate Change Associate, CIHT. “In December 2022, we published the latest version of our CPD guidance setting out what is expected of CIHT members and the support available from the Institution. This includes a new expectation that all members should dedicate some of their CPD effort to decarbonisation.”

Singling out a subject in this way is a new step for CIHT and reflects the size of the challenge the Institution’s leaders believe we all face to deliver a net zero transport system on a timeline consistent with avoiding the worst potential impacts of accelerating climate change.

Practicalities of decarbonisation

Turning theoretical knowledge into practical action is where education truly proves its worth. Professionals equipped with the right education can lead the charge in executing decarbonisation initiatives within their organisations. This includes everything from integrating renewable energy sources into infrastructure to adopting more efficient logistics and fleet management practices.

Education also helps in understanding regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements. As governments worldwide tighten emissions standards and introduce policies aimed at reducing carbon footprints, those working in transportation need to be well-versed in these regulations to ensure their projects and operations align with legal mandates.

The role of organisations

Organisations in the transportation sector play a crucial role in creating and supporting a culture of continuous learning. By investing in the education and professional development of their workforce, companies can ensure their employees are well-prepared to meet the challenges of decarbonisation. This investment can take many forms, including sponsoring CPD courses, providing access to industry conferences, and encouraging participation in professional networks focused on sustainability.

Bather concludes: “Civil engineering is truly a global industry, and it is only now that we are really understanding how its effects impact people in the UK and around the world. If the profession does not understand the effects of its daily work on the climate crisis, the biodiversity of our living planet and the most affected people, then it cannot act ethically, and individual engineers cannot be sure that they are doing the right thing.”

Image: Michael Bather, Senior Lecturer and Programme Director Civil Engineering, University of Liverpool; credit: Michael Bather.