RTA analysis shows that emissions from public transit vehicles make up less than 2% of total transportation emissions in the region, therefore, transit plays an instrumental role in advancing sustainability by reducing the need to drive. The Service Boards are committed to exploring clean technology and transitioning all our fleet by 2040 to become a zero-emission regional transit system. Decreasing the environmental footprint of transit and reducing single occupancy vehicle travel is essential in moving toward a more sustainable network and aiding the climate crisis.

Stakeholder working groups are urgently pushing for electrification of bus fleets and improved coordination in adoption of green transit technologies. Working groups suggest improving planning efforts to fortify the regional network against climate and other barriers such as infrastructure emergencies and labor shortages. Lastly, working groups recommend established funding or incentive programs to implement green infrastructure near our region’s transit

With more resources and funding, the agencies could transition their fleets quicker and more thoroughly. Additionally, more resources would allow for other energy-efficient updates to be made to transit stations and facilities. With resources, the agencies can improve the resiliency of the systems and buffer the effects of climate change.