RESIDENTS in Blackburn with Darwen are being invited to have their say on plans to reduce carbon emissions.

The plans have been developed by political and business leaders who have come together through Transport for the North and aim to achieve near-zero carbon emissions from transport by 2045.

Methods the group has developed include using more zero emission vehicles, decarbonising the rail network and encouraging more people to use public transport.

Transport for the North interim chief executive Tim Wood said: "We urge everyone in Blackburn with Darwen to get involved in this vital work and provide their views to the consultation, helping to shape future transport networks that are not only efficient and reliable, but are sustainable too."

He added: "Our decarbonisation strategy is a vital piece of work in moving the North of England towards the ambitious goal of near-zero carbon emissions from surface transport by 2045.

"Using data and insights, alongside predictions and modelling analysis, the strategy sets out the challenges and opportunities ahead, providing a clear trajectory that will not only lower emissions, but also enhance connectivity for our region’s people and businesses."

Other approaches developed by the group include the use of hydrogen and alternative fuel vehicles, decarbonising the freight industry and encouraging the use of carbon capture technology.

Mr Wood and his colleagues hope the by encouraging people in Blackburn with Darwen and across Lancashire to take part, they can develop their ideas further and gain a greater understanding of the region's needs.

Mr Wood said: “Reducing carbon across our region’s transport network is an essential part of tackling the climate emergency, one of the greatest challenges of our time.

"We’re thrilled to be consulting a strategy for the whole region that outlines how rapid progress can be made and how the North can lead the UK in slashing carbon emissions.

"Surface transport is the largest contributing sector to greenhouse gas emissions in the UK, accounting for 22 per cent of all emissions in 2019.

"The majority of this is from road transport, so there is a clear and urgent need to decarbonise our vehicles and roads over the coming years.

"But we must also take action on our rail network, with a rolling programme of electrification, and encourage a shift to more sustainable forms of transport and construction practices too."

The consultation opened on Monday June 7 and will close on Tuesday August 31 2021.

To take part, go to: www.transportforthenorth.com/decarbonisation/.