Transportation accounts for more than a quarter of U.S. carbon emissions, making it the largest source of U.S. carbon emissions.
This sector surpassed power generation in 2017 as the top emitter. Urban sprawl, and the transportation challenges it presents, is one of the reasons for this development. Some argue that climate change can’t be mitigated without addressing this issue—even if power generation goes completely green.
The U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure recently addressed this issue and raised some solutions. Among them was the need to view infrastructure and climate change as linked issues, not separate ones.
Though no consensus emerged from the deliberations, one view was that low-carbon and storm-resilient transportation systems including public transit should be priorities. Also, climate resiliency should include natural solutions such as restored wetlands.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 10, 2018
Interactive heat maps track temperature ranges in U.S. cities
Urban heat island effect can vary by as much as 37°F in the same city.
Codes and Standards | Oct 9, 2018
Power systems will become more decentralized for better disaster resiliency
Businesses, homeowners will control more power-generation capacity.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2018
Getting commitments from key subs critical on government contracts
Withdrawn subcontractor bids can be costly.
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2018
Internal watchdog says EPA falling short to protect school children from asbestos
Agency not conducting enough inspections, report says.
Codes and Standards | Oct 3, 2018
Climate change impacts could prompt realignment of assets for commercial property developers
Strategies include reducing exposure to properties in flood-prone areas.
Codes and Standards | Oct 2, 2018
Political will, tougher standards needed to reach carbon neutral goal
Stretch codes, more stringent credentials for designers, contractors, and inspectors may be needed.
Codes and Standards | Sep 27, 2018
Natural light is the most prized office perk
Employees crave sunshine and views of the outdoors more than cafeterias, fitness centers, and childcare.
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2018
Industry consensus needed for multifamily energy efficiency retrofit approach
Choice of insulating materials can impact indoor air quality, resident health.
Codes and Standards | Sep 25, 2018
New market forces disrupting global real estate development industry
Executives concerned about trade policy, labor shortages, approval processes.
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2018
More than 130 organizations petition OSHA to create heat protection standard for workers
Includes mandatory rest breaks, heat-exposure monitoring, record-keeping injury requirement.
