By Steve Gorlewski
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), transportation accounts for the largest portion of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the US. As many countries have embraced renewable energy, the US is falling behind.
Tackling transportation pollution is more important than ever! Discover some of the green transportation options that exist in Howard County, Maryland!
-
LED Streetlights
Studies show LED lights not only last longer but they also save money, improve visibility on roads, and don’t emit poisonous gases. With traffic lights at 85 intersections in Howard County, energy use has decreased by 60 percent. Initiatives like these not only can help the environment but also can improve safety.
-
Electric Car Chargers
The electric vehicle has increased popularity in the past several years, as they have become more affordable, accessible, and enjoyable to drive. These vehicles have postive impacts on the environment by producing zero direct emissions, helping improve air quality, and even creating jobs in the state of Maryland.
Pictured is one of the new vehicle charging stations located at the Central Branch Library
Therefore, Howard County has 12 charging stations and counting free of charge. Recently, they added at a new station at the Miller Branch Library in Ellicott City, MD.
-
Public Transit
Public transit is critical to reducing emissions by limiting vehicle trips. Howard County has daily bus service in Columbia, Ellicott City, Savage, and other locations in and around the county.
In addition, there is a 187-mile commuter rail system, a shared ride transportation service for eligible riders, and a contracted commuter bus service from within Howard County to Baltimore City to Washington, DC.
One of the several bus stops at a park and ride station in Columbia, MD
-
Electric Buses
Three full-sized, lightweight buses run exclusively on electric, transporting riders to and from destinations across Columbia. This adoption has now helped reduce greenhouse emissions, diminished engine noise, and decreased diesel cost. Commuters enjoy the features as well, especially the USB ports available on each bus.
Interestingly, the buses are powered by Momentum Dynamic inductive chargers in downtown Columbia or, in other words, charged without even being plugged in.
-
Parks, walkways, bike trails
Columbia, MD in Howard County is not just a great place to live and work, but home to some of the best places for walks, runs, and bike rides, such as Lake Elkhorn Park, Cedar Lane Park, Wilde Lake Park, and other beautiful places.
Locals spend a nice day running, walking, and biking at beautiful Lake Elkhorn Park in Columbia, MD.
However, the Department of Planning and Zoning wants walkable communities like Columbia throughout the county, so they began working with locals on its “Walk Howard” plan, devised to make it easier and safer to walk to school, commercial areas, and jobs as opposed to taking transportation.
In 2016 The Howard County Council adopted “BikeHoward”, to improve infrastructure in the community with new bike lanes designated shared roadways, and shared-use pathways.
This bike rider enjoys a nice fall day on one of Howard’s friendly trails
These actions are helping now, but most importantly will help all of us in the future, and serve as a strong example to other communities.
To get involved in our transportation efforts email transportation@mdsierra.org