US transportation sector could cut carbon emissions 34% by 2030: analysis

The United States transportation sector could reduce carbon emissions by 34% by 2030

• Analysis released Thursday shows that by 2030, emissions from transportation in the U.S. will be reduced by 19% because of state, local and federal policies. America Is All In is a climate advocacy coalition supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies.
• The corresponding author for the report and director of the Center for Global Sustainability at the University of Maryland, Nate Hultman, said "We've actually made a lot of progress." However, more action could be taken to reduce transport emissions, bringing the country closer to meeting President Joe Biden's goal of a 50% to 52% reduction in U.S. carbon emissions by 2030.
• On Thursday, the Federal Highway Administration announced a new program that will give $6.4 billion to states and localities over five years. This program is called the Carbon Reduction Program and it is part of the bipartisan infrastructure law.

Hultman said that cities, states and businesses are continuing to lead the way in reducing carbon emissions. He is hopeful that the 2030 climate goals can be met because of this. For example, Maryland just passed a bill which sets a target for cutting greenhouse gas emissions 60% below 2006 levels by 2031. California is also getting ready to tighten emissions regulations and mandates for zero-emission vehicle sales.

The report found that, with additional effort from Congress, state and local governments and the private sector, GHG emissions from transportation could be reduced by up to 34% by the end of the decade. Specific actions and examples from the report include:

• The Federal government is continuing the tax credit of $7,500 for people who buy electric cars until 2030. They are also making the fuel economy standards higher for heavy-duty vehicles.
• There have been a number of efforts to reduce emissions from vehicles. Cities and states are setting targets for how many electric vehicles should be in municipal fleets. There have also been efforts to improve mobility options and reduce vehicle use. This has included updating building codes to require new and renovated buildings include EV charging infrastructure.
• The private sector should invest in research and development of alternative fuels to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, the power grid should be gradually decarbonized to halt climate change.

The administration's Carbon Reduction Program requires states to develop strategies to reduce carbon emissions. This can be done by working with Metropolitan Planning Organizations. Eligible projects include:

• Truck stop and port electrification.
• Micromobility and biking.
• Bus Rapid Transit corridors and dedicated bus lanes.
• Congestion pricing and travel demand strategies.
• On- and off-road trails for pedestrians, bicyclists and other nonmotorized forms of transportation.

“We have an ambitious climate target,” Hultman said. “It’s an achievable target but it’s only achievable if we keep making good choices.”

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