RFG Roundtable at Scottish Parliament Champions Rail Freight’s Role in Scotland’s Economy & Net Zero Goals
Rail Freight Group (RFG) members and guests gathered at the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, 19th March, for a dynamic roundtable discussion hosted by Edward Mountain MSP, Chair of the Parliament’s influential Net Zero, Energy, and Transport Committee.
With eight MSPs from across the political spectrum in attendance, the conversation underscored the critical role rail freight plays in boosting Scotland’s economy and driving progress towards decarbonising transport.
Industry leaders—including freight operators, ports and terminal operators, major logistics firms, and rail freight customers—made a compelling case for policy consistency to unlock private sector investment. Discussions also highlighted how a stronger rail freight network for trunk movements will enable last-mile decarbonisation through technologies like e-HGVs.
MSPs heard firsthand about the sector’s growth ambitions and the rising demand for rail-based solutions from major logistics providers and end customers. Delegates reinforced that modest investments in rail freight deliver high returns, benefiting both Scotland’s economy and carbon reduction goals. Crucially, the event spotlighted the need for close collaboration between the Scottish and UK Governments to enhance cross-border freight infrastructure. Strategic planning for freight transport—particularly in delivering materials for nationally significant developments—was championed as the key to maximising value from rail freight while minimising carbon impact.
Takeaway messages for MSPs were that rail freight is critical to support Scotland’s ambition to grow its green energy economy, that investing in rail infrastructure for freight will unlock private investment, and that setting strong targets for rail freight growth is key to ensuring aligned behaviours and interests across the industry.
