News and Issues

The most energy efficient households in America that produce the least amount of carbon are located within close proximity of a bus or rail line. The people in those households drive an average of 4,400 fewer miles annually as compared to persons in similar households with no access to public transit, according to a new study released today by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).

The study, “Broadening the Connection between Public Transportation and Energy Conservation” was prepared for APTA by ICF International. It also finds that communities who choose to invest in public transportation reduce the nation’s carbon emissions by 37 million metric tons annually- equivalent to the electricity used by 4.9 million households. To achieve a similar reduction in carbon emissions, every household in New York City, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Denver and Los Angeles combined would have to completely stop using electricity.

To view the full report, go to http://www.apta.com/research/info/online/land_use.cfm