Green transportation solutions have the potential to transform traditional cities into sustainable paragons. When comparing the carbon footprint of public transit to that of single-passenger cars, the former carries a myriad of benefits. These include reduced fuel consumption, improved air quality, decreased traffic congestion and cost savings for commuters.Public transportation has the potential to be a key player in the future sustainability of urban areas. Cities across the Republic of North Macedonia are working to find green transportation solutions to improve an outdated system. These initiatives include switching to electric buses, vehicles, raising public awareness, improving walk-ability in communities, and making policy changes.Here are some green transportation solutions to be on the lookout for in the future:
1. Alternative fuel technology
Alternative fuel technology is one solution to improve the public transportation system. Electric buses are a successful example of green transportation. But unfortunately, our country does not have a good traffic infrastructure that could support this mode of transport. Diesel trolleys are the most intensive of all types of buses, especially the use of biodegradable diesel.Many people argue that natural gas is a more cost-effective solution than gasoline, although there is debate about the sustainability of its long-term use. Buses are not the only form of public transport to test alternative fuels. Ride-sharing companies like Uber are also responding to consumer trends for more sustainable fuel sources. This application for public transport has not yet been introduced in our country, but it would be a good alternative in future if the vehicles are electric or use alternative fuel.
2. Pedestrian-Friendly Design
Pedestrian-friendly design isn’t just about streets with nice sidewalks and plenty of trees. One of the key aspects of a walkable community is access to public transportation. Transit-friendly planning involves designing urban areas that are equally accessible by walking, biking, driving and public transit. Pedestrian-friendly design supports public transit by making infrastructure more accessible. These features can include anything from providing amenities for transit riders to creating priority lanes for vehicles.When residents can easily walk to public transportation routes, they are more likely to utilize them. A pedestrian-friendly layout is a green transportation solution because it looks at development holistically. Green infrastructure refers to the process of solving urban and climate issues by developing spaces that work with nature rather than against it. By making public transportation more accessible, cities improve the likelihood of residents utilizing these options.This solution approach is quite accepted by almost all mayors in Macedonia so that green solutions are included in the annual plan of municipalities every year
3. Citywide Bike-Share
Bike-shares, while not currently recognized as a type of public transportation, are gaining popularity in cities nationwide.Citywide bike-share programs alleviate heavy traffic congestion during commuting hours, reduce fuel consumption and provide a cost-effective transport option for urban communities. They are also easy to utilize and serve as a flexible option for daily commuters who may choose to get a workout on their way to the office. From a city planner viewpoint, bike-shares are also inexpensive and require few adjustments to current infrastructure.Research also found that bike-shares have a positive economic impact on local businesses. Evidence exists that bike-shares promote efficiency, especially in city centers. When individuals need to travel locally and cannot access locations by traditional forms of public transportation — or by walking — biking is an excellent solution for medium distances. In addition to providing more efficient transportation, bike-share programs are also flexible.
4. Sustainable urban planning
Most people commute to work in single-passenger cars. Urban planning is a technical process that deals with the development and use of the built environment and land. Sustainable urban planning focuses on infrastructure that promotes clean air and water and renewable resources. Improving public transport schedules is an essential part of the solution, and sustainable planning achieves this.
Public Transportation, Green Transportation Solutions, and the Environment
The benefits of public transportation include saving money, improving air quality and reducing our society’s dependence on fossil fuels. Public transit plays a crucial role in how people will build future cities. It will also influence how architects and urban planners design living environments to optimize our relationship with the space around us.Green transportation solutions for the public transportation system can be implemented in any urban area. Public transportation is proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, encourage sustainable development and save energy. Considering alternative fuels, implementing green policies and planning more sustainable cities all contribute to improving the public transportation system.
From the students of SSOU “Dimitrija Chupovski” – Veles, Republic of North Macedonia
