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Work with cities to accelerate climate action: invest in public transport

Mayors, workers and city residents unite to call for more investments and a just transition to urgently expand and electrify public transport.

What we stand for

what

‘The Future is Public Transport’ is a campaign uniting mayors, workers, union leaders, activists and city residents. Together, we call on world leaders to make the investments needed to drive a green and just economic recovery and transform our cities for the better. The campaign is led by C40 Cities and The International Transport Workers Federation and supported by a network of global partners, including The International Association of Public Transport.

why

Using public transport instead of driving is one of the most effective actions people can take to help combat the climate crisis. But not everyone is able to use it. Every person living in an urban area should have access to safe and affordable public transport within a 10 minute walk from their home. World cities need immediate, long-term and stable governmental support to make this happen.

if we double urban public transport

emissions cut potential
millions quality jobs created
trillions saved per year until 2050
in return for every $ invested

AN ECONOMIC
SOLUTION

Public transport is vital for city economies. It creates and provides access to more and better paid jobs, and gives employers access to the skills they need. Good quality public transport attracts businesses to cities and enables them to thrive.

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A CLIMATE
SOLUTION

Enhancing public transport and designing cities around it in order to reduce car dependency could contribute 20-45% of the total emissions reductions required to limit global heating to 1.5°C.

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STATEMENT

Work with cities to accelerate climate action: invest in public transport

CITY ACTIONS

A SOCIAL
SOLUTION

Equitable access to public transport is a cornerstone of equality. Everyone in a city benefits from public transport, whether it’s through accessing work, education, healthcare, culture and entertainment, or through reduced traffic congestion, pollution and road accidents.

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A HEALTH 
SOLUTION

Better air quality reduces the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, creating healthier cities. People who use public transport are more physically active than people who drive. Moreover, public transport makes streets safer by reducing the dominance of motor traffic. It remains one of the safest ways to move around.

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WIRE

STATEMENT

Work with cities to accelerate climate action: invest in public transport

Rear view of a man with backpack walking between train on train station