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Why Does Transportation Matter?
Why Does Transportation Matter?
Transportation, as an economic sector, accounts for 29% of total greenhouse emissions. Passenger and small vehicles account for nearly half of the emissions in the transportation sector (EPA, 2019). In the Bay Area most people commute by driving personal vehicles which contributes to air pollution, lengthy commute times, and unsafe conditions for students to get to school. Transportation also has significant environmental, social, and economic impacts:
Environmental: Transportation is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate change. In addition, the extraction, production, and global distribution of fuels for transportation can damage environmentally and/or culturally significant ecosystems and may financially benefit hostile and/or oppressive governments.
Social: Transportation is also a major source of pollutants that contribute to health problems such as heart, respiratory diseases, and cancer. Due to disproportionate exposure, these health impacts are frequently more pronounced in low-income communities next to major transportation corridors.
Economics: Economic growth relies in large part on transportation especially related to the development of infrastructure and global supply chains.
Key Mandates
Key Mandates
What are the key mandates and policies related to sustainable transportation in California?
What are the key mandates and policies related to sustainable transportation in California?
California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Federal Transportation Authority (FTA) Rules (49 CFR - part 605) says that busses must be a part of regular school service, and must be open to the general public. California has also mandated a no-idling law (ACR 160 - Chpt 98) aimed at reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions where children congregate.
Sustainable Transportation Goals and Strategies
Sustainable Transportation Goals and Strategies
What is a reasonable goal for an educational institution to take part in a sustainable transportation system, and what are strategies for achieving this goal?
What is a reasonable goal for an educational institution to take part in a sustainable transportation system, and what are strategies for achieving this goal?
Goal Example: The school campus's facilities and operations take action to reduce emissions from transportation to and from school.
Goal Example: The school campus's facilities and operations take action to reduce emissions from transportation to and from school.
Green Commute
Safe Routes to School: Encouraging and enabling students to safely walk or bike to school reduces emissions from travel, traffic congestion, and improves health and wellbeing.
EV Charging Stations: Creating more infrastructure for the use of electric cars enables more people to switch to more fuel efficient vehicles.
Green Policies and Practices
No Idling Policy: Cars idling during pick up/drop off time contributes to greenhouse emissions as well as exposes children to air pollutants. No idling policies include signage and educational campaigns for cars on school campuses.
Alternative Fuels: Alternative fuels such as biofuels and electricity from renewable energy sources emit less greenhouse gas emissions. Alternative fuel vehicles can be purchased as school fleets (yellow or white) are maintained or updated.
Get Recognized for taking Action!
Get Recognized for taking Action!
There are a number of different programs at the local and state-wide level that will recognize or award your school community for taking action.
Local Programs
San Mateo County Sustainable and Climate Resilient Schools Challenge - Possible Financial Award!
San Mateo County Green Star Schools
Statewide Programs
Green Ribbon (ED-GRS & CA-GRS): P1 - E1D: Alternative Transportation
CA Green Business Award: Pollution Section
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