The 20mph debate rages on in Bristol, with murmurings of potential reversal, Bristol Cycle Campaign want to shed some facts on an important aspect – Energy and Emissions. We’ve even got a handy infographic.

One controversial argument often heard is that a vehicle travelling at 20mph has higher fuel consumption and emissions than at 30mph. Whilst it is true that the gearing on most passenger cars means that traveling on an empty motorway at 20 instead of 30 would use more fuel for the same distance, the same is not true in urban areas. Even during uncongested times these roads have junctions and traffic lights. It is almost impossible to safely navigate a city without stopping and starting.

Take a 4km journey with 7 stops 500m apart.