Larisa Manescu, larisa.manescu@sierraclub.org
Washington, DC - Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration proposed a rule that will require state Departments of Transportation and Metropolitan Planning Organizations to establish performance measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from their transportation plans and programs.
Transportation is the leading source of greenhouse gas emissions in the US and a major source of air pollution. States can take critical action to reduce emissions by investing in sustainable transportation projects ranging from passenger rail and transit to bicycle and pedestrian paths. Increasing access to public transit, improving bike and pedestrian safety, and making it easier for residents to drive electric vehicles will help states make progress on climate.
This announcement emphasizes that setting state targets will help ensure that the U.S. can reach our national goal of cutting emissions in half by 2030.
Katherine García, Director of Sierra Club's Clean Transportation for All Campaign, released the following statement:
“The Biden administration's greenhouse gas (GHG) performance measure is essential for reducing transportation emissions. We are on the brink of a climate catastrophe. At this pivotal moment every decision states make must ensure that our communities thrive and help us reach our climate goals.
“States must be held accountable for their transportation plans and effectively leverage existing funding, including from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, for sustainable projects.
“To maximize the benefits of the GHG performance measure, Congress must pass legislation investing in climate, jobs, and justice this year. We urge policymakers to ensure that residents across the country can access incentives for new and used electric vehicles and electric bikes, and that communities can move away from congested roads and highways by investing in public transit and high-speed rail. Congress must prioritize clean transportation as the critical benefit for healthy communities that it is.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.