The Impact of Transportation and Urban Planning on Carbon Emissions: A Case Study of Cambridge, MA
Over a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions produced in the U.S. are attributed to the transportation sector. Recent findings suggest that reducing vehicle miles traveled will be necessary to meaningfully reduce these emissions. Accomplishing this goal will require a renewed interest in creating and enhancing rich urban form. The dense, mixed-use, community structure of Cambridge, MA have resulted in low single-occupancy vehicle shares and widespread use of sustainable, non-motorized modes of travel, resulting in lower than average transportation related greenhouse gas emissions in the state of Massachusetts and the nation.
This report looks at the specific policy approaches that have led to this outcome. To view the academic paper submission, click here