Public transportation systems have always played an integral role in the functioning of any society. They’re essential for connecting the different regions of extensive metropolitan areas, and for reducing congestion and pollution that worsen with the increasing number of private vehicles. One of the most underrated attributes of public transportation is its potential to significantly reduce our carbon footprint. This makes it a much greener option compared to other modes of transportation. This article will elaborate on why public transportation is a more environment-friendly option.
Less Congestion, Less Pollution
Public transport, by its very design, is made to accommodate multiple people at once. According to the American Public Transportation Association, a single commuter bus can replace about 30 cars on the road. By grouping travelers, we can significantly reduce the number of vehicles on roads, which leads to less congestion. A decrease in traffic congestion means less idling of cars on the streets, which in turn results in less carbon dioxide emission. According to the United Nations, road traffic is responsible for about 40% carbon dioxide emissions in the United States. Hence, the lower the number of private cars on the road, the less the carbon dioxide emissions.
Energy Efficiency
Compared to privately owned vehicles, buses and trains are designed to hold larger capacities and are therefore constructed to be more energy-efficient. Research indicates that heavy rail transit such as subways and metros are nearly 20 times more energy-efficient than conventional cars and light trucks. Similarly, moving commuters in buses is about six times more efficient than moving the same number of people in private cars. Consequently, increased usage of public transportation is directly parallel to increased energy efficiency which promotes a cleaner environment.
Reducing the Urban Heat Island effect
Besides reducing emissions and increasing energy efficiency, public transportation helps counteract the Urban Heat Island effect. Urban Heat Island effect refers to the phenomenon where urban and metropolitan areas experience significantly warmer temperatures than their rural surroundings as a result of human activities. More cars and asphalt mean more absorption and release of heat, which contributes to the phenomenon. By reducing the number of cars and the associated need for parking spaces, public transportation helps mitigate the Urban Heat Island effect.
Supports Sustainable Land Use
Public transportation encourages the development of compact, walkable communities that are more sustainable. This kind of development limits urban sprawl by promoting higher population densities, reducing distances people need to travel to work or obtain services, and by capitalizing on the most efficient forms of public transportation. This is another reason why public transportation is a greener option.
Conclusion
While there is a significant emphasis on making personal lifestyle changes to reduce our carbon footprint, opting for public transportation should be considered as one of the most effective methods of achieving this goal. Not only do they help achieve sustainable land use, but they are also key in reducing air and noise pollution, cutting down greenhouse gas emissions, and leapfrogging towards greener, healthier cities. If more people were to use public transportation, it has the potentials to drive us closer towards achieving sustainability in city planning and the bigger picture of climate action.
FAQs
1. Is public transportation really greener than using a car?
Yes, depending on the type of public transit, mode of fuel it uses, and the number of people it transports at a time, it can significantly reduce one’s carbon footprint compared to using a personal vehicle.
2. How much can I reduce my carbon footprint by opting for public transportation?
Switching entirely from a private vehicle to public transportation can help reduce the annual emissions by more than 4,800 pounds of CO2, equivalent to an increase in fuel economy from 20 to about 30 miles per gallon for a single vehicle.
3. Does public transport reduce traffic?
Yes, public transportation moves people in a more compact, efficient way, and can significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the road. This helps to mitigate traffic congestion issues.
4. How does public transportation affect urban sprawl?
Public transportation allows for more concentrated land use, causing cities to grow in more compact, efficient patterns. This helps to prevent so-called “urban sprawl,” where development spreads out over a wide area in a less efficient, more resource-intensive way.
5. What is the Urban Heat Island effect and how does public transport combat it?
Urban Heat Island effect refers to increased temperatures in urbanized areas due to reduced vegetation and increased impervious surfaces like roads and building. By reducing the number of vehicles on the road and the associated need for parking spaces, public transportation helps to limit the absorption and emission of heat, thus mitigating urban heat island effect.
