Find general sustainability research, tools, and resources here, including FTA reports, academic papers, and information on Green Building, Environmental Management Systems, and LEED.
- FTA Transit Green Building Action Plan
- FTA-Sponsored Environmental Management Systems (EMS) Training
- American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Sustainability Webpage
- Transit Sustainability Guidelines, APTA Standards Development Committee (PDF)
- LEED-ND, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Neighborhood Development.
U.S. Green Building Council - FTA Research Reports on Sustainable Transit: Environment/Energy/Alternative Fuels
- Sustainable Transit: Developing an Action Agenda
- U.S. Department of Transportation Clearinghouse on Transportation and Climate Change
- Public Transportation’s Role in Responding to Climate Change (PDF)
- U.S. Department of Energy Annual Energy Outlook
- U.S. Department of Energy Transportation Energy Data Book
- Reinventing Transit: American Communities finding smarter, cleaner, faster transportation solutions
Environmental Defense Fund
Sustainability Resources on Specific Topics
Climate Change
Public transportation can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing a low emissions alternative to driving, facilitating compact development, and minimizing the carbon footprint of its operations. Find research on transit and climate change, tools for measuring and reducing carbon footprints, and information on transportation-related climate change adaptation here.
Environmental Analysis and Review
A clearinghouse dedicated to providing all the necessary information to guide transit agencies, resource agencies, and the public though the environmental review process for transit projects and improvements that receive Federal funds. Here you will find detailed information on NEPA and other environmental policy, as well as information on environmental streamlining and stewardship as mandated in Executive Order 13274. This site also provides resource information, compiled in the NEPA reference library, and information on professional development opportunities.
Transit Oriented Development
By combining investment in public transportation with mixed-use, compact land use around transit stations, transit-oriented development (TOD) reduces car trips and distances and boosts the environmental benefits of transit. Find out more about FTA policies that support TOD here, as well as tools and resources for building TOD.
Livable and Sustainable Communities
Highlights how FTA programs fit into the larger DOT Livability Initiative and the Federal Sustainable Communities Partnership to provide citizens with access to affordable housing, more transportation options, and lower transportation costs, while protecting the environment in communities nationwide.