Why are buses so important?•Buses a

Why are buses so important?•Buses and coaches improve social inclusion, providing access to education, employment and healthcare to all – including those on low incomes, those who do not drive, the older generation, people with disabilities and people living in remote areas.•Buses are an important link in the multimodal mobility chain.•Coaches move people comfortably and affordably across long distances.•Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems have gained popularity worldwide as a cost-effective alternative to far more expensive urban rail investments.•With one bus capable of replacing 30 cars on the road, buses help ease traffic congestion.•Buses and coaches have the lowest carbon footprint per passenger of any form of motorised transport.