Alternative Transportation

What's the problem?

With a population of 2.72 million individuals, Miami-Dade County residents are always moving. Most drive cars, increasing carbon emissions every time they travel. A major way to reduce our emissions is to use public and alternative transportation. Unfortunately, public transportation in Miami has not kept up with its urban growth. There is limited access to trains and buses that lack frequent and consistent service. Many trolley systems also do not have connections to further transportation. Currently, low income and communities of color benefit less from improvements to public transportation. They also have less access to certain amenities and destinations. These issues and outdoor heat mean that many prefer using individual cars. Developing and investing in public transportation can address these problems and reduce our emissions.

Why should we care?

Transportation is the biggest contributor (about 27%) to the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. According to the EPA, our cars emit ozone, particulate matter, and air toxins that threaten our air quality. Mom’s Clean Air Force states that exposure to polluted air can increase your risk of developing diseases like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or respiratory cancer.  Air pollution from vehicles affects thousands of people. People who live near busy roads are especially vulnerable. Thus, it is essential to find solutions. We must take advantage of alternative and public transportation that reduces the number of emissions and vehicles on the roads. Doing so will help “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages'' (UN SDG 3) while making cities “inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable” (UN SDG 11).

What can we do?

Miami-Dade County is investing in public transportation to reduce carbon emissions and congestion on highways. The County is also adopting an electric fleet of government cars. Local non-profits like the Transit Alliance are working on increasing access to public transportation and encouraging investments in sidewalks and bike lanes. Schools can help by developing transportation programs that reduce emissions and benefit air quality around campuses. These programs can provide students, parents and staff with different commuting options and resources. Schools can create and use carpool lanes and no idling zones. A ride-matching system can help families and/or staff develop bike and walk groups. Changes in our communities will encourage individual families to look for alternative methods of transportation as they become more accessible.

Green Schools Challenge Activities:

STE(A)M Activity - This is My Stop

CREATE YOUR OWN - Submit Lesson Plan click here

Points for participation will be based on a rubric. Download here.

Alternative Transportation Activity Submission Form Click Here