Slowing down traffic can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in addition to improving roadway safety.
In an article in Policy Options, Jörg Broschek argues that reducing speed limits is one of the fastest ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
According to Broschek, a speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour (18.64 miles) would also improve safety and mobility in addition to cutting emissions. “To be sure, 30 km/h zones won’t solve the problem all by themselves. But they are an important tool as part of a more equitable and sustainable local transportation infrastructure.”
As Broschek explains, “In zones of 30 km/h, many four-way stops can be done away with in residential neighbourhoods.” Broschek calls on Canadian municipalities to take action and adjust their speed limits, a common practice in Europe that few North American cities have adopted.
FULL STORY: Cities can speed up climate action by slowing down traffic
Santa Monica Lowers Speed Limits
Posted speed limits will be reduced by 5 miles per hour on dozens of the city’s streets.
Report: 14 States Increased Per-Capita Carbon Emissions
Many of the states on the list are red-leaning states that fought against federal environmental reporting regulations.
Report: Some Rural States Ahead of More Urbanized Ones in Reducing Transportation Emissions
This is a largely unintended consequence of states with lower populations and resources focusing on repairing existing roads and infrastructure rather than expanding and building new roads.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
How Community Science Connects People, Parks, and Biodiversity
Community science engages people of all backgrounds in documenting local biodiversity, strengthening connections to nature, and contributing to global efforts like the City Nature Challenge to build a more inclusive and resilient future.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Dear Tesla Driver: “It’s not You, It’s Him.”
Amidst a booming bumper sticker industry, one writer offers solace to those asking, “Does this car make me look fascist?”
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Santa Clarita
Ascent Environmental
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service