Briefing for 20mph speed limits debate

Parliamentary briefing ahead of Stage One Debate on the Restricted Roads (20mph Speed Limit) (Scotland) Bill

Friends of the Earth Scotland strongly support the proposal to replace the national default 30mph speed limit with a 20mph limit, and the evidence supporting that position. We believe that the ‘Safer Streets’ Bill would

• Improve air quality by creating a smoother flow of traffic
• Contribute to tackling the climate emergency by reducing transport emissions
• Encourage greater levels of active travel, reducing pollution, and encouraging more people to access the huge benefits of an active, healthier, lifestyle
• Reduce accidents and reduce pollutants which have a particularly detrimental impact on health
• Create greater cost efficiency for local authorities in delivering safer streets