Solution

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector

This solution addresses environmental degradation and public health problems associated with greenhouse gases in New York City, USA for local communities

Problem Description

New Yorkers produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions to get around than citizens of most other cities in the country, thanks to our 24/7 subway system, citywide bus network, and dense, walkable communities. But we can do more. Despite widespread mass transit use, New York City’s transportation sector, which includes private vehicles, freight, and mass transit (subway, commuter rail, and bus), makes up 23 percent of the city’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuels burned in passenger cars contribute 16 percent of the citywide total, while those in trucks are responsible for an additional four percent. On-road vehicles also emit particulates and other air pollutants such as nitrogen and sulfur oxides (NOX and SOX), which contribute to asthma rates and premature mortality.

Building Blocks

Reduce carbon emissions from the City government’s vehicle fleet

Story

The transportation investments detailed under Vision 1 of this plan are the first key steps to diversified low-carbon transportation options for New Yorkers. Select Bus Service, the expansion of bike networks and bike share, safer streets for walking and biking, expanded ferry service, and upgrades to the subway system all reduce the need for getting around by car and will have regional impacts on greenhouse gas as well as air pollutant emissions. These benefits will help create cleaner communities and reduce commute times, thereby enhancing livable neighborhoods and providing a better quality of life.

Beyond the currently planned investments in better buses, an expanded bike network, safer streets, and improved transit, the Department of Transportation (DOT), in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability (MOS), will develop a long-term plan for further reductions in emissions from the cars and trucks in New York City to achieve the necessary GHG reductions.

Resources

New York's Resilience Strategy

Organisations Involved

New York City, New York, USA

Solution Stage

One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn more

STAGE	SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED	EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES	RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING	FINANCE REQUIRED	KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED	GOAL
Developing and testing3	Mix of design and implementation skills	Rapid prototyping Service, product and process design Co-design User-design Light-touch evaluation Cost-benefit modelling Randomised control trials	High failure rate should be an explicit expectation Visible senior leadership essential HIGH	Grants, convertible grants/loans MEDIUM	A stronger case with cost and benefit projections developed through practical trials and experiments, involving potential users	Demonstration that the idea works, or evidence to support a reworking of the idea

Submitted By

Janae Futrell