“Invest in Your Planet – Ride Public Transit”

Earth Day 2008 is April 22.  At a time of heightened environmental and energy concerns, the New York Public Transit Association (NYPTA) is urging New Yorkers to take individual action to insure a sustainable environment for future generations.  “Using public transportation is one of the most effective actions a person can take to actively promote sustainable environments and communities”, said Scott Sopczyk, NYPTA President.  “Public transportation offers an immediate alternative for individuals seeking to reduce their energy use and carbon footprints and delivers far greater benefits than other energy saving household activities, such as using energy efficient light bulbs or adjusting thermostats”

According to the American Public Transit Association, an individual commuting alone by car, who switches a 20-mile round trip commute to existing public transportation, can reduce their CO2 emissions by 4,800 pounds per year, equal to a 10% reduction in all greenhouse gases produced by a typical two-adult, two-car household.  By eliminating one car and taking public transportation, a savings of up to 30% of carbon dioxide emissions can be realized.

The New York Public Transit Association encourages everyone to invest in our planet by riding public transit on Earth Day and every day.  NYPTA’s website at www.nytransit.org has links to information on Earth Day.  An interactive map on the website will link visitors with the websites of public transportation systems in their area, where riders can find extensive information on routes, fares and how to ride public transit.

“Riding public transportation is easy,” said Mr. Sopczyk.  “At a time of record gasoline prices and environmental concerns, a ride on public transit is a small investment that will deliver major returns.”

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Public Transportation Facts for Earth Day 2008 

• Public transportation is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by 37 million metric tons annually.
• Public transportation saves fuel, reduces an individual’s carbon footprint, and reduces congestion.
• Public transportation provides an immediate option individuals can take to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Public transportation use by a solo commuter switching his/her commute from a private vehicle can reduce CO2 emissions by 20 pounds per day—more than 4,800 pounds in a year.
• Public transportation use saves the U.S. the equivalent of 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually—more than 11 million gallons of gasoline per day.
• Public transportation provides an affordable alternative to driving. Households that use public transportation save an average of $6,251 every year.
• Public transportation ridership has increased 30% since 1995, with more than 10 billion trips taken annually.
• Public transportation is a national priority that should be specifically targeted by climate change and energy legislation. 

We all have a stake in expanding public transportation use.