Summary
TS is committed to delivering our vision for a well-adapted transport system in Scotland and will continue to take steps to embed adaptation and resilience within each of our transport networks and their modes, as well as our wider activity as an organisation. A summary of the Purpose, Vision, Risks and Strategic Outcomes of our ACCAR is provided in Figure 16.
Through our ACCAR we have set out:
- Our Vision and Framework for a well-adapted transport system that is safe, reliable and resilient;
- Key climate risks affecting each transport network, based on up-to-date climate science;
- TS’s role and key approaches for each transport network; and,
- Our four Strategic Outcomes and various Sub-Outcomes to delivering a well-adapted transport system.
It covers a timeframe of 2022-30 in which we will address the 7 CCRA3 risks that relate to transport (see Table 1) and aligns with the timescales for the current and subsequent Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme (SCCAP). SCCAP3 is due to be published in 2024, which will cover the period up to 2029. Following publication of SCCAP3 in 2024, a review and update of our approach will be undertaken to ensure it remains appropriate in this regard and continues to contribute to wider adaptation efforts in Scotland.
We will continue to deliver against our current transport related outcomes within SCCAP2, play an active role in developing the next iteration of SCCAP and seek to realise our Strategic Outcomes through various Sub-Outcomes set out in our approach.
There will be a focus on infrastructure that is currently under direct TS control, such as Trunk Roads. For other infrastructure we will engage and collaborate with our stakeholders to further embed, enhance and encourage adaptation and resilience interventions across all transport modes in Scotland.
To ensure that Our Vision is delivered, a TS governance structure will be implemented to provide ownership of the Strategic Outcomes and Sub-Outcomes across each transport network. Delivery of the Sub-Outcomes and associated actions will be captured as part of our statutory Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Report and will inform our contributions to the SG annual progress report on SCCAP2. This will allow for progress to be tracked year on year.
Further to this reporting, it will also be important, as subsequent plans and actions are set out and progressed, that we develop relevant and appropriate targets and indicators of success. To aid this process, we will draw upon our various other strategies and plans to develop an effective monitoring and evaluation process to measure success, overseen by the governance structure.
Figure 16 - Transport Scotland Approach to Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience - Purpose, Vision, Risks and Strategic Outcomes
Purpose
This document sets out our current approach to adaptation and resilience in relation to climate change, highlighting the key risks identified in the UKCCRA3 and provides an adaptation and resilience framework for Scotland's transport system.
Vision
A transport system which is well adapted and prepared for the current and future impacts of climate change. It is safe for all users, reliable for everyday journeys and resilient to weather related disruption.
Risks
The CCRA3 identifies 7 key climate risks that relate to transport infrastructure, includin the impacts of flooding, erosion, slope and embankment failure, subsidence, high and low temperatures, high winds and lightning. By delivering our Strategic Outcomes, we will manage these 7 risks across the Scottish transport network.
Strategic outcomes
AR.1 Trunk Road Network
A network which is well-adapted and resilient to thte current projected and unexpected impacts of climate change.
AR.2 Rail Network
Supporting the delivery of climate change and resilience for Scotland's rail network.
AR.3 Aviation Network
Engage with our stakeholders to support their decision making in relation to climate change adaptation and resilience,
AR.4 Maritime Network
Contributing to safeguarding lifeline ferry services, ports and harbours and canals in response to the threat of climate change.