Research News Last updated 12 August
Researchers at Birmingham City University (BCU) have been awarded nearly £50,000 to develop AI-powered strategies that will make the UK’s transport systems both greener and more resilient to the impacts of climate change.
Transport is one of the UK’s biggest polluters, responsible for 27% of total greenhouse gas emissions - with road transport alone accounting for 90% of that figure, according to the Department for Transport.
The BCU-led project will examine key transport corridors across the UK. It will use real-time data, international best practices, and AI tools to produce decision-making support systems and practical policy guidance.
“This is cutting-edge research which will harness AI to safeguard our transport infrastructure against the growing challenges of climate change,” said Dr. Syed Attique Shah, Senior Lecturer in Smart Computer Systems at BCU and the project’s Principal Investigator.
“We can use this technology to anticipate vulnerabilities, optimise maintenance, and guide low-carbon investments, our project will help protect commuters, freight operators, and local businesses from service interruptions and financial losses.
“Communities will benefit from more reliable, cleaner transport options, while policymakers and industry can prioritise cost-effective resilience measures.”
The benefits will extend beyond infrastructure. Communities will gain access to more reliable, cleaner transport, while government and industry leaders can make informed, cost-effective decisions to improve resilience.
The need for action is clear: heatwaves have already started straining the UK's transport network. In July this year, trains faced speed restrictions during high temperatures, while the June 2022 heatwave led to roads and airport runways reportedly melting.
By developing AI-driven tools and evidence-based guidelines, this project will enable policymakers and transport operators to strengthen UK infrastructure to limit climate change impact, whilst encouraging low-carbon transport options.
Professor Hanifa Shah, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research, Enterprise, Engagement and STEAM at BCU, said “Research like this is helping BCU create policy and frameworks to tackle climate change and ensure transport is sustainable for future generations.
“I’m proud that BCU research is having an impact on one of the most important issues affecting our community and beyond.”
The project is funded by the EPSRC with support from UKRI and DfT under National Hub for Decarbonised, Adaptable, and Resilient Transport Infrastructures (DARe).