Transportation Transformation: Building complete communities and a zero-emission transportation system in BC

Author

Patrick Condon, Eric Doherty, Kari Dow, Marc Lee, Gordon Price

Organization

Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives - BC Office

Published

2011

Summary

Most British Columbians want to see action on climate change. Because two-fifths of BC’s greenhouse gas emissions are from transportation, this means rethinking our reliance on cars and trucks that burn fossil fuels to move people and goods large distances every day.

A zero-emissions transportation system is achievable by 2040. It will rely heavily on renewable electric power, shifts toward electric vehicles, and expansion of public transit and cycling infrastructure. But for the transportation system to be as efficient and enjoyable to use as a private car, we will also need to develop complete communities where people do not have to travel far to meet their day-to-day needs, making it possible to walk, bike and use high-quality public transit. These communities include a mix of housing types (including affordable housing options), decent jobs, public services, parks and other public spaces, and commercial districts with restaurants, offices and retail outlets. Large new investments in alternative transportation infrastructure must support the development of complete communities, as streetcars and trains shaped pre-automobile neighbourhoods a century ago.

We outline key strategies to drive the transition, based on the following objectives:

• Shorten the average trip length for all modes of transportation;
• Shift auto trips to more efficient modes, such as bike trips or public transit;
• Switch to clean fuels, primarily zero-emission electricity;
• Make transportation connections seamless; and
• Integrate actions to maximize other benefits (such as improved health and safety).

Our 30-year initiative is aimed at transforming communities of all sizes, and how people and goods move across the province. This rapid evolution must increase affordable housing choices, availability of jobs, transportation options, and, ultimately, quality of life. A zero-emission transportation system is both plausible and achievable with existing and near-term technologies.

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OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database