Exploring the many benefits of low carbon urban transport

Low carbon transport has many social and economic benefits that can accelerate local sustainable development and that deserve recognition beyond their role in addressing climate change. A series of five new papers, ‘LEDS in Practice’, from our LEDS GP Transport Working Group highlights case studies on the social and economic benefits of low carbon urban transport – from job creation and saved time and money, to fighting poverty, and achieving safer roads and cleaner air.

This series explores how low carbon urban transport can present win-win opportunities, including:

  • City investment in low carbon transport structures such as bicycle lanes and pedestrian pathways would promote commuter safety on the roads.
  • More affordable, efficient, and safe travel connects people to more employment and social
    opportunities.
  • Low carbon urban transport offers a practical opportunity to save people’s time and household income as well as government budgets.
  • Along with the short term employment impact, longer term jobs in public transport systems tend to be more formalized and secure.
  • The clear links between greenhouse gas emissions and particulate matter make low carbon transport an increasingly sustainable investment at local level—both by reducing emission levels and thus mitigating climate change; and by improving public health through better air quality.

Download the LEDS in Practice series below:

For more information, contact our Transport Working Group at transport@globalclimateactionpartnership.org.

 

Image credit: Sirensongs