Ride SEPTA. Save the World.
April 14, 2021
Shared mobility - aka public transportation - is one of the most environmentally-friendly transit alternatives.
The three most prominent benefits of using public transportation over single-occupancy vehicles includes the reduction of carbon emissions, air pollution [which results in better air quality], and congestion on roads—including traffic.
It's also a more cost-effective alternative in cities where a lack of parking [like in Philadelphia] can lead to congestion, and in lower density areas where the cost of commuting across large travel zones and the upkeep of multiple vehicles is expensive.
When public transportation is used effectively - the environmental benefits will have a lasting impact on future generations.
But - let’s face it. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic - how many times have you seen buses driving around with hardly anyone in them? Or a nearly empty subway car?
Public transportation is an environmentally friendly alternative only when used to its fullest capacity - meaning when people ride it.
Declining ridership spells disaster for our collective efforts to address climate change.
If commuters shun public transportation for cars as their cities recover from the pandemic - the implications for air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions could be HUGE.
Studies show there will be long-term health consequences if people in large numbers switch from public transportation to private cars.
Most importantly - if transit systems continue to lose passenger fare revenues - they will not be able to make the investments necessary to be efficient, safe and attractive to commuters.
When we all make small changes—the impact is dramatic. Choosing to ride public transportation is one of the most impactful choices we can make to reduce our carbon footprint, improve air quality, and help our cities recover from the pandemic. And research shows no direct correlation has been found between use of urban public transit and transmission of COVID-19.
So - beyond being a no-brainer- it’s a choice you can be proud of and feel good about.
