Introduction
The transportation sector is one of the significant contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the world. While there are different modes of transportation available, the focus of this article is on public transportation and how it can positively impact global warming. Public transportation is considered an opportunity to reduce GHG emissions, and several studies have shown that it is a more sustainable means of transportation for urban areas.
The Problem
Transportation’s significant contribution to GHG emissions has been a concern for the global community, and it is essential to understand the problem’s magnitude. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the transportation sector is responsible for almost 29% of total GHG emissions in the United States. Cars, buses, and trucks emit harmful pollutants that cause respiratory problems, heart disease, and more dangerously, leading to climate change. With the increasing number of cars on the roads, especially in developing countries, the problem is likely to become more severe.
The Solution
One of the solutions to reduce GHG emissions from transportation is to encourage the use of public transportation. Public transportation refers to mass transit systems such as buses, trains, trams, subways, and ferries that are available to the general public.
Reduced GHG emissions
The use of public transportation can reduce GHG emissions significantly. According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), public transportation produces 95% less carbon dioxide (CO2) per passenger mile than a single-occupancy vehicle. This reduction means that fewer carbon emissions are released into the atmosphere, thereby reducing the impacts of global warming.
Reduced traffic congestion
Public transportation systems can reduce traffic congestion in urban areas. When more people use public transportation, there are fewer vehicles on the road, reducing the traffic congestion and the time spent on the road. This reduction in traffic congestion can also help reduce GHG emissions, as less time spent on the road means fewer emissions from vehicles.
Reduced air pollution
Public transportation systems can help reduce air pollution caused by vehicle emissions. Poor air quality caused by pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease, and asthma. According to the APTA, using public transportation can reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 95%, particulate matter emissions by 97%, and volatile organic compound emissions by 95% per passenger mile compared to a single-occupancy vehicle.
Reduced reliance on fossil fuels
Public transportation systems offer the potential to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. Many public transportation systems use alternative fuel sources such as electricity, natural gas, and biofuels. These fuel sources have lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels such as gasoline and diesel.
Conclusion
Public transportation systems have the potential to reduce GHG emissions significantly. The use of public transportation reduces traffic congestion, air pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to global warming. Governments and transportation providers should work together to promote the use of public transportation and offer incentives such as reduced fares and expanded services to encourage more people to use it. Taking action towards sustainable transportation is essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and create a more sustainable future for the planet.