Public transport and the environment
Information on this page
Environmental benefits of public transport
Catching public transport is a great way for people to contribute to a cleaner environment.
With its efficient use of energy and space, Melbourne's public transport network carries its passengers with 30 per cent fewer greenhouse gas emissions per person per kilometre than private vehicles. In peak periods, public transport operates 60 per cent more efficiently than private vehicles.
The following projects are just some of the sustainable public transport initiatives contributing to a cleaner, greener Victoria.
Projects
TravelSmart
The State Government initiated the TravelSmart grants program in 2006 with the aim of reducing people's dependency on cars and persuade them to choose sustainable travel alternatives such as travelling by public transport, cycling and walking. More details are available from the
TravelSmart website.
Low emission buses
The first five Euro 4 Clean Diesel buses were introduced to Victoria in March 2007. The Invicta bus company has purchased the new buses as part of the Government's $189 million Bus Replacement Program.
The new buses have significantly reduced emissions, producing:
- 28 per cent less carbon monoxide
- 30 per cent less hydrocarbon
- 30 per cent less nitrogen oxides
- 37 per cent less smoke
In addition, the State and Federal Governments are supporting a trial of hybrid-electric buses.
Melbourne's hybrid-electric bus trial is the first of its kind in Australia and is all part of our plan to achieve a cleaner and more sustainable state.
The trial is part of plans outlined in the
2006 Sustainability Action Statement and is in the 2008
Victorian Transport Plan.
Wind tram
In partnership with renewable energy company Pacific Hydro and the State Government,
Yarra Trams has secured green electricity to run Victoria’s first ‘wind powered’ tram.
From March 2008, electricity from Victorian wind farms is used to power the tram that runs on Route 96 (St Kilda Beach and East Brunswick).
Yarra Trams' Green Depots
Melbourne tram operator Yarra Trams has introduced the Green Depot initiative at its Preston and Malvern depots to save energy and water. The project includes using rainwater caught from the depot roofs to wash trams and harnessing solar energy as well as other environmentally friendly initiatives.
The project was launched at the Preston Depot and was a winner in the 2007
savewater! awards.
More details are available from the
Yarra Trams' Green Depot page.
Rail corridor grassland conservation
VicTrack and Landcare Australia jointly coordinate the Grassroots program to provide funding for the protection and enhancement of native grasslands along rail corridors and other areas in Victoria. A total of $100,000 was allocated to 25 conservation projects in 2007.
For more information, visit
VicTrack - Environment Management