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How can public transit walking and cycling make cities more sustainable?
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Crowds of people in Tokyo's Shibuya shopping district.
Public transit, walking, and cycling are essential components of sustainable urban development, as they help cities move away from the destructive impacts of automobile dependence.1
Benefits of Sustainable Transport
- Environmental Impact: Mass transit, such as buses and electric rail, consumes fewer resources and produces significantly less air pollution per person-trip than private automobiles. By reducing the number of cars on the road, these modes lower overall energy requirements and help mitigate climate change.231
- Efficient Land Use: Transit systems and non-motorized modes (walking and cycling) require less space than auto-dependent infrastructure. This allows cities to reduce the need for parking and freeways, freeing up land for more productive uses, such as green public areas, housing, and community spaces.231
- Economic and Social Vitality: High-quality transit supports the economic success of dense employment and retail centers by making it easier for large numbers of people to travel. Furthermore, prioritizing walking and cycling creates human-oriented city centers that improve quality of life, equity, and accessibility for those who cannot or choose not to drive.231
Transitioning to these modes is a vital step in reducing a city's ecological footprint and ensuring long-term urban survival.1