THIS Earth Day, TransLink is encouraging Metro Vancouver residents to take Transit for the Planet to cut down on emissions and save money.
By taking transit instead of driving a gasoline vehicle, the average resident can shrink their transportation greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) by about 80 per cent, while saving up to $8,000 annually when compared to owning and driving a car.
In Canada, the average cost of a new vehicle is $53,000 while used vehicles can cost $36,500, according to recent industry data. It also costs $10,000 annually to own and operate a car, factoring in fuel, insurance, maintenance, parking, and depreciation. While a 3-Zone Adult Compass Card costs $2,273 a year.
“By choosing to take transit, you not only contribute to reducing carbon emissions but can also enjoy significant financial savings,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “Building strong, clean, and sustainable communities starts with taking Transit for the Planet.”
Taking transit is one of the most sustainable ways to get around, after walking and cycling. In one year, TransLink customers collectively save 307,000 tonnes of GHGs by not driving a car. This is equivalent to removing nearly 100,000 fossil fuel-powered light-duty vehicles (cars, light trucks, SUVs) off the road.
At 32 per cent of emissions, light-duty vehicles represent the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the region and transportation is the second-largest expense for most households, after housing, in Metro Vancouver.
As part of the third annual Transit for the Planet campaign, TransLink employees will be handing out wildflower seed packets at seven major transit hubs to thank customers for choosing transit and to celebrate Earth Day.
TransLink says it is committed to lowering its greenhouse gas emissions, through its Climate Action Strategy, which includes:
- A target for a zero-emissions fleet by 2040.
- Adding approximately 460 battery-electric buses by 2030.
- TransLink’s first all-electric bus depot, the Marpole Transit Centre. Once complete in 2027, it will house over 300 battery-electric buses.
TrasnLink says you can participate in Transit for the Planet by taking the bus, SkyTrain, SeaBus, or West Coast Express this Earth Day. Customers are encouraged to share how they’re using transit on social media using the hashtag #Transit4ThePlanet.
