New emissions data shows Auckland Transport (AT) has recorded its lowest operational emissions since reporting began, exceeding its Statement of Intent target with an 8.0% reduction on the previous year and a 0.65% decrease from the 2021/22 baseline.
AT says the result was achieved despite significant growth in public transport services, more Aucklanders gaining access to frequent public transport and continued investment across Auckland’s transport network.
“These results show that Auckland can continue to grow while reducing emissions from transport,” says AT’s Manager – Climate Transition, Sandra Murray.
“We’re delivering more public transport services and investing in infrastructure while continuing to reduce the carbon footprint of the network. It’s encouraging to see these long-term investments now delivering measurable results.”
AT said one of the biggest drivers of the recent progress has been the continued transition to electric public transport. Since 2021/22, kilometres travelled by electric buses have increased from 4.2 million to 23.7 million annually, helping more Aucklanders travel on quieter, lower-emission public transport services. At the same time, AT’s overall operational emissions have fallen.
“This means Auckland’s growing electric bus fleet is no longer simply offsetting increases in service delivery. Emissions are now falling even as more services are being provided across the city.”
“Auckland is building one of the most electrified public transport networks in Australasia, going from only 12 electric buses in 2020 to over 400 today,” says Councillor Richard Hills.
“Auckland Council Group is delivering the City Rail Link, adding hundreds of electric buses, and bringing electric ferries to the fleet. Bus network improvements have brought around 40,000 more Aucklanders within walking distance of frequent public transport, alongside 8.3 kilometres of new walking and cycling paths and investment in dynamic bus lanes.
“Much of this investment is funded by Aucklanders through the Climate Action targeted rate which is not only improving air quality and reducing our emissions but is reducing operating costs and cushioning the blow from high diesel costs.”
The organisation says its infrastructure programme is also delivering positive results. The carbon associated with building, maintaining and renewing transport infrastructure has reduced by 13.2% since 2021/22, despite a 67% increase in capital investment over the same period.
It says this progress reflects a sustained focus on smarter design, low-carbon materials, construction innovation and working with suppliers to reduce emissions throughout the delivery process.
