Sustainable Parking Solutions: How the UK Is Adapting to Green Transport

The UK is underway towards its target of net-zero emissions by 2050, with significant changes to the way we travel and park already evident.  

Despite some initial consumer scepticism caused by the unit price of electric vehicles (EVs) and the lack of charging infrastructure in the early days of “green transport”,  domestic EV-adoption is becoming more widespread, accounting for over a quarter of car registrations in November—a 51% year-on-year growth (1). 

With sustainability a permanent fixture on the political, social and industrial agenda, parking infrastructure is now evolving to meet the needs of a greener future. From EV charging points to eco-friendly materials, here’s how parking is adapting to the UK’s push for cleaner transport, and how Intelli-Park can help you stay ahead.

Charging the future: the rise of EV charging points

The rapid growth of EV charging infrastructure in car parks is one of the most high-profile changes to the parking sector. The British Parking Association (BPA) has noted a steady increase in the number of EV chargers across the UK, emphasizing the importance of making charging convenient and accessible (2). According to the BPA, the expansion of EV charging infrastructure is crucial as the UK prepares for the ban on new petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicle sales by 2035, with car parks well-placed to play a pivotal role enabling the EV revolution. 

At Intelli-Park, we partner with leading EV specialists to integrate charging solutions into parking facilities. This not only supports the transition to cleaner vehicles, but also provides car park operators with an additional revenue stream.

Greener parking structures: sustainability in design

Parking facilities are also being reimagined, using sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs. Innovations like solar carports—structures with integrated solar panels—are generating renewable energy while providing shade for parked cars. Additionally, recycled materials, energy-efficient lighting and rainwater harvesting systems are becoming common features of modern car parks, particularly in urban developments.

These sustainable solutions reduce environmental impact and enhance the appeal of parking facilities to eco-conscious drivers. Intelli-Park can guide operators in implementing these forward-thinking designs, creating spaces that align with the UK's green goals.

The demand for smarter, greener solutions

Sustainability isn’t merely a buzzword—it’s a necessity. As more drivers make the switch to EVs and cities aim to reduce congestion, the demand for smarter parking solutions continues to grow. Technologies like ANPR cameras and digital permits can play a role here, reducing paper waste and streamlining parking operations. Solar-powered eCams, like those offered by Intelli-Park, provide an eco-friendly way to manage parking, even in remote locations. 

Why sustainability matters in parking

The parking industry has a vital role to play in achieving the UK’s net-zero emissions target. By integrating sustainable practices, car parks can reduce their environmental impact while meeting the expectations of modern drivers. Forward-thinking operators who invest in green infrastructure now will not only play their part in supporting the sustainability agenda, but gain a competitive advantage in the green economy. 

How Intelli-Park supports green parking

At Intelli-Park, sustainability is at the core of what we do. From supporting the EV charging infrastructure to implementing solar-powered solutions and paperless systems, we help car park operators future-proof their facilities. Whether it’s creating an EV-friendly space or upgrading an existing car park with eco-friendly features, our solutions ensure your parking meets the needs of today—and tomorrow.

Looking to go green with your parking facilities? Contact Intelli-Park to learn how our sustainable parking solutions can help you support the UK’s transition to cleaner transport, while enhancing your business.

SOURCES

1. AM Online: https://www.am-online.com/news/ev-sales-soar-to-record-high-in-november-taking-25-market-share#:~:text=The%20UK%20achieved%20a%20new,year%2Don%2Dyear%20growth.
2. British Parking Association, various articles and reports including: https://www.britishparking-media.co.uk/blogs/why-the-parking-sector-is-ideally-placed-to-support-the-path-to-net-zero?utm_source=chatgpt.com