Transit is uniquely positioned to provide the United States with the opportunity to support sustainability efforts, through environmental benefits and energy savings.
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) manages $10 billion annually in federal funds to support public transportation which can have multiple environmental benefits. In addition to supporting public transportation as a whole, FTA grant, research, and technical assistance programs assist state and local governments in providing environmentally sustainable transportation solutions.
FTA Activities that Promote Environmental Sustainability
- Grant Programs
- Research and Promotion of Innovation
- Technical Assistance
- U.S. Department of Transportation Center for Climate Change and Environmental Forecasting
Transit’s Role in Environmental Sustainability
Public transportation plays an important role in confronting environmental challenges. Public transportation can:
- Improve air quality
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Facilitate compact development, conserving land and decreasing travel demand
- Save energy
- Minimize impacts
- Provide other benefits
|
Riders boarding a heavy rail vehicle. Transit offers a way for people to travel - yet save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. (Photo courtesy of WMATA)
|