Transportation is responsible for almost 40 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions in California. To reduce emissions, we often first turn to technological remedies, but the way that we build our cities and transportation networks will also ultimately determine whether we successfully meet our pollution reduction targets.
As the graph below shows, even with greener cars and fuels, California will not be able to achieve its climate goals unless it can also reduce the number of vehicle miles traveled (VMT).
Despite the better fuel efficiency standards in AB 1493 (Pavley) and the Low Carbon Fuel Standard Program, travel-related greenhouse gas emissions will continue to rise if residents have no choice but to drive more and more.
In addition, while the central purpose of SB 375 is to reduce greenhouse gas pollution, it will have a range of additional benefits to our communities, our economy, and our health.
Reduce Air Pollution and Related Health and Medical Costs
Air pollution-related illnesses cause thousands of hospitalizations, emergency room visits, and premature deaths every year in California. Better planning would tackle a root cause of California’s worst-in-the-nation air pollution and help stop the rise of chronic illnesses.
Stimulate New Construction, Job Creation, and Economic Investment
Construction and home building were hit particularly hard in this economic downturn. Through SB 375, developers can take advantage of a streamlined environmental review process – saving thousands of dollars per project – by building projects in walkable communities with public transit access. Visit Urban Land Institute for more information.
Support Market Demand for Well-Planned and Walkable Communities
SB 375 will help our regions plan for future growth in a way that strengthens our economy and protects our quality of life. The housing market increasingly values the kind of compact, mixed-use development envisioned by SB 375. SB375 Econ Fact Sheet
Save Taxpayer Dollars
The planning principles encouraged by SB 375 will help cities save money by using energy, water, and infrastructure more efficiently. View Vision California
Save Time and Money for Families
After housing, transportation is most households’ largest expense. When gas prices rise again, costs will rise further, particularly for those who live in auto-dependent neighborhoods. By building neighborhoods that offer additional options such as walking, biking, and public transit, Californians can save both time and money that would otherwise be spent on commuting. View Vision California
Preserve Natural Lands, Working Farms, and Ranch Lands
If we continue with trend development patterns, we will double California’s urban footprint by 2050, consuming more than 5,500 square miles of farmland, open space, and recreation areas. We can save that land by investing in existing neighborhoods and city centers. View Vision California
Make Walking and Biking Easier and Safer
California increasingly faces an obesity crisis. That is because many neighborhoods and regions make it difficult to travel on foot or by bike. In fact, thirty percent of all traffic fatalities for children ages 0-14 occur when children are walking and bicycling. Having safer routes for pedestrians and bicyclists will reduce traffic, support the independence of seniors and teenagers, and make it more pleasant to go out for a stroll. Visit SafeRoutesPartnership.org
