Transportation and Climate Change

Overview

Over a quarter of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from the transportation sector. With this in mind, investments in sustainable infrastructure must include a strong focus on transportation. By taking a robust approach to transportation, cities can go a long way towards reducing their GHG emissions and meeting reduction goals. In addition to helping meet climate goals, when done right, sound transportation policy can help make cities more equitable by addressing accessibility through strategies like reducing gaps in service, improving first and last miles, and expanding biking infrastructure for racially and economically diverse communities.  

What approaches are cities taking?

  • Electrifying municipal fleets
  • Bus Rapid Transit
  • Investment in expansion of public transportation services
  • Improving public transportation accessibility
  • First and last mile investments
  • Reducing car use through land use
  • Affordable transit-oriented housing
  • Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
  • Bike Share and other multi-modal investments

Technical Assistance for Members

Member cities can request up to three short policy memos per year on the topics that you need the most help with.  Learn more.

What Cities Can Do

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Comprehensive Plans

Seattle, WA is tackling transportation equity and sustainability through a multitude of initiatives detailed in their New Mobility Playbook. 

Minneapolis, MN’s Climate Action Plan focuses on creating safer and more accessible streets through ambitious goals of doubling regional transit ridership, building walkable and bike friendly neighborhoods, focusing development along transit corridors, closing gaps in their transit network, and more.

Oakland, CA is similarly focused on transportation policy and land use, taking an aggressive approach through Sustainable Oakland. Housing developments and parking structures need to have robust electric charging stations, car sharing programs, housing infill along transit condors, bike share, and affordable transit-oriented housing. Take a look at Sustainable Oakland or their Energy and Climate Action Plan to learn more.

 

Fleet Electrification

Seattle, WA is electrifying their fleet with the goal of reducing GHG emissions by 50% by 2025. Minneapolis, MN has led the way on this issue as well.

Public Rider Share

Seattle, WA is also tackling the difficult task of increasing rider share on public buses.