Travel involves transport and with the high level of level of carbon emissions generated by public transport means that travel has a big impact on the environment. However this is not going unnoticed and individuals, companies and governments are implementing ways to reduce the environmental impact, and particularly carbon emissions, of different transport options. Here are three ways that the environmental impact of public transport is being reduced:
1. Public Transport Companies Going Green
Public transport providers are recognizing their environmental impact and the need to introduce more sustainable business practices if they are going to stay competitive. More and more airlines have introduced carbon offsetting programs which travelers can choose when they purchase tickets. Eurostar has a campaign which addresses a number of environmental issues including carbon emissions. The decision to introduce more sustainable options not only helps the environment but also puts the company in a competitive position for growing consumer awareness of environmental issues.
2. Consumers Making Different Choices
Every company is driven to provide what their customers want and with more publicity on environmental issues the general public is becoming more aware of transport choices. People are starting to acknowledge that using public transport to get to work is more environmentally friendly than driving their individual vehicles. Although change is slow, more and more indicators suggest that the public are considering environmental factors in their purchasing such as buying carbon offsets when flying, using public transport more often and considering more environmentally friendly hybrid car models.
3. Developers Considering Transport in New Developments
While councils and other government departments have long been involved in detailed transport planning, there is now greater consideration to giving the local population greater travel options such as providing better footpaths and cycling lanes in urban areas. The consideration of transport options is also being taken on board by property developers who are now more likely to consider transport access and availability as part of their initial planning of a new development. Some councils, such as the Workingham Borough Council in the United Kingdom, have rules developers must follow in an effort to ensure better transport in the area.
Although the public transport industry as a whole has a long way to go in adopting sustainable practices there are clear indications that the ‘greening’ of public transport is becoming a higher priority. The combined effort of individuals, companies and governments is vital to reducing carbon emissions from transportation.