First published: 21/06/2023 -

Last updated: 21/03/2024 -

Public transport

A little more train and bus travel and a little less time in the car is a green choice many of us can make to reduce our impact on the planet, and make Wales an even better place to live.

Transport is Wales’ third largest cause of carbon emissions – accounting for 17% of emissions in 2019. By using cars less, we can reduce these harmful emissions and air pollution to help make our communities healthier.

What can we do?

Public transport lets someone else do the driving so you can spend your journey doing something else – whether that’s reading a book, taking a nap or having fun with your family.

Although using the car is sometimes more practical – if you're a wheelchair user for example – using public transport can be cheaper if there are a lot of you. If you can, why not give public transport a try? Here are some ideas to get you started:

Explore your options

If you usually drive somewhere, see if you can swap one trip a week for public transport. Is there a bus or train that you can take to work? Is there a shorter car journey you can swap for walking, cycling or wheeling? Find out if your employer encourages staff to use public transport, with a season ticket loan scheme, for instance. If accessibility is a must, check if your local public transport options will work for you.

Get organised

Before travelling, have a look at schedules to find the most convenient and fastest way to get to your destination.

Stay updated

Mobile apps and websites, such as the TfW app, could help you stay informed about your journey and avoid any delays or changes. Plus, you can easily search for timetables and find the best routes and connections when you’re on the go.

Check for booking discounts

Explore different ticket options, as you might be able to get cheaper fares if you buy online. Are you a regular bus or train traveller? Find out if you’re eligible for travel passes or railcards that offer discounted fares for students, over-65s or families.

Combine with active travel

Walk, wheel, scoot or cycle instead of using your car for shorter journeys, for example to the bus or train station. Then cover longer distances on public transport. 

Why take action?

By 2030, the Welsh Government is hoping to reduce the number of car miles travelled per person by 10%. Public transport is a sustainable travel choice that can help us meet this target.

So, why should we use public transport instead of personal vehicles? Using the car less helps to:

Reduce your environmental impact

There are many benefits of using public transport to the environment, for example fewer cars on the road helps reduce pollution and improve air quality.

Improve your health

Walk, wheel or cycle to the bus station and cover longer distances with public transport to help keep you fit and active. Using public transport will also allow you to relax and avoid the stress of driving which is beneficial for your mental wellbeing.

Save time

Buses and trains can be a great way to avoid traffic jams during rush hour – thanks to bus lanes and fast trains. Plus, you can spend some quality time with your kids, colleagues or on your own, socialising, working or listening to music.

Save money

Public transport can be cheaper than using your own car, particularly if you’re a solo traveller, as you won’t have to spend money on fuel, parking or maintenance costs.

No need to worry about parking

Buses and trains often take you to the heart of a town or city so you can hop off and be exactly where you need to be, without having to find or pay for a parking space.

Flexible bus service booms

A flexible bus service has seen increased passenger numbers as they explore more sustainable modes of transport.

Find out how