Thu, 2012-02-16 10:57
Kyoto Protocol was established as a first step in trying to reduce the dangerous environmental destruction that could face our planet. In Canada transport is responsible for up to a quarter of all greenhouse gases. If we are going to reverse global warming as well as smog and other pollutants, public transit is a key part of the answer.
-Passenger transportation makes up 54% of the total greenhouse gas emissions created by all modes of transportation.
-Public transit is responsible for less than one percent of greenhouse gas emissions. It consumes only a quarter of the energy per person-kilometre that automobiles take in Canada.
-Transportation is responsible for 59% of nitrogen oxide emissions – the source of smog.
-The Ontario Medical Association has calculated that 1,900 people die each year in the province because of smog exposure.
-Each full TTC bus saves 70,000 litres of fuel and effectively removes nine tonnes of pollutants from the air each year.
-Over the next 25 years, Canada predicts a 40% increase in transport-related fossil fuel consumption. By 2010 alone, these emissions are predicted to increase by 15%.