Slowing down traffic can reduce greenhouse gas emissions in addition to improving roadway safety.
In an article in Policy Options, Jörg Broschek argues that reducing speed limits is one of the fastest ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
According to Broschek, a speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour (18.64 miles) would also improve safety and mobility in addition to cutting emissions. “To be sure, 30 km/h zones won’t solve the problem all by themselves. But they are an important tool as part of a more equitable and sustainable local transportation infrastructure.”
As Broschek explains, “In zones of 30 km/h, many four-way stops can be done away with in residential neighbourhoods.” Broschek calls on Canadian municipalities to take action and adjust their speed limits, a common practice in Europe that few North American cities have adopted.
FULL STORY: Cities can speed up climate action by slowing down traffic
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Eagle County Government
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
Nashville Planning Department
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
The Pocatello Development Authority
The Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Pocatello
Journal of the American Planning Association