Traditional transport has negative impacts on the environment offshoots, is a threat to public health, and has been linked to different social and economic costs. Enter sustainable transport. It is a concept based on the broader principle of sustainability, a solution to the disadvantages of urbanization, and one of the key components in developing sustainable cities.
Existing and Proposed Examples of Sustainable Transport
Sustainable transport or sustainable mobility aims to integrate sustainability with transportation to ensure that the need for mobility does not endanger the prospects of communities, their inhabitants, and the environment. There are different examples of modes of transportation and transportation systems that have been regarded as sustainable. Some are existing while others are proposed ideas and models. Take note of the following:
1. Walking and Walkable Streets
One of the characteristics of sustainable and green cities is the presence of safe and convenient walkable streets, as well as the proximity of residential zones to commercial zones. Walking does not cause emissions nor does it require energy input. It also promotes physical activity and addresses the modern sedentary lifestyle.
2. Cycling and Bike Lanes
Another example of sustainable transport is cycling. It also promotes physical activity while also causing zero emission and requiring no energy input similar to walking. However, for cities and megacities to embrace cycling, there should be designated and well-planned bike lanes that efficiently connect different location points.
3. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Technological developments are making electric vehicles and fuel-electric hybrid vehicles more feasible for mass production and mass consumption. Tesla has succeeded in ushering in an era of electric vehicles. Both electric and hybrid vehicles have zero to lower emissions and eliminate or reduce outdoor air pollution in major thoroughfares.
4. Shared Vehicle Ownership
A shared vehicle ownership concept provides members or participants with vehicles for personal use without the costs and commitment of individual vehicle ownership. This has the potential to lessen the number of vehicles and traffic volume on the streets and encourages more cost-efficient and even energy-efficient use of vehicles.
5. Carpooling or Ride-Sharing Services
This is similar to shared vehicle ownership but it is centered on companies providing mobility-as-a-service. It specifically involves arranging one-way and on-demand transportation similar to traditional cabs or taxis but done via an online platform. Uber Technologies is the most notable example of a ride-sharing service provider.
6. Electric Mass Transportation
Another example of sustainable transport that has been deployed in developed countries is electric mass transportation or electric public transit. This involves the construction of relevant infrastructures such as roads, railways, bus terminals, and train stations, and the electrification of mass transport vehicles such as trains and buses.
7. Sustainable Aviation Practices
There are different proposals to make air travel sustainable. One example is the use of sustainable aviation fuel that is made from agricultural wastes or carbon-captured fuels or the development of electric aircraft. Other examples include climate taxation, carbon offsetting policies, and low-waste flight standards.
