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Make a Difference this Earth Day by Trying Transit

MEDIA CONTACT INFORMATION::

Adam ShaivitzMisty WhitedErica McKewen
(512) 369-6027 (512) 389-7572(512) 369-6085
(512) 844-5153 cell (512) 844-5090 cell(512) 401-7665 cell
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Make a Difference this Earth Day by Trying Transit


Riding Capital Metro helps reduce greenhouse gases

April 20, 2009

NEWS FACTS

  • In recognition of Earth Day on April 22, 2009, Capital Metro reminds all central Texans that using public transit is one of the most effective actions individuals can take to reduce harmful emissions and preserve air quality.
  • As the 2009 Ozone Season begins, the region is on the verge of failing to meet new federal air quality standards set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency.
  • The Clean Air Force of Central Texas and other local governments are encouraging a "Big Push" to drastically reduce greenhouse gases this summer.
  • Capital Metro supports the "Big Push" and is encouraging citizens to take advantage of the environmental and economical benefits of public transit.
  • According to the American Public Transportation Association, a single person, commuting alone by car, who switches a 20-mile round trip commute to existing public transportation, can reduce his or her annual CO2 emissions by 4,800 pounds per year, equal to a 10 percent reduction in all greenhouse gases produced by a typical two-adult, two-car household.
  • As a Clean Air Force Partner, Capital Metro is also committed to protecting air quality in the community through various actions:
    • Capital Metro consistently provides quality public transportation services and maintains the highest per capita ridership in Texas, with about 140,000 daily boardings.
    • Capital Metro completed the conversion of its entire bus fleet to Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel three years before federal requirements took effect. The fuel emits fewer airborne pollutants than regular diesel fuel - 92.5 percent fewer sulfur dioxide emissions, and 10 percent less particulate matter.
    • A fuel additive is used in buses and support vehicles that reduces Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions by 5.5 percent and is approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
    • Capital Metro currently has three hybrid diesel-electric buses that get up to 10% better fuel efficiency and produce fewer emissions.
    • 14 Toyota Prius hybrid electric cars are currently in use in Capital Metro's GreenRide carpool program.
    • The freight rail line from Giddings to Llano reduces 18-wheeler traffic on area highways by 160,000 truck rigs each year.
    • Capital MetroRail will use hybrid diesel-electric railcars, which produce fewer emissions than standard locomotives.
    • Capital Metro participates in Austin Energy's Green Choice renewable energy program.
    • The Authority supports the City of Austin Climate Protection Plan and partners with the city to provide free bus rides to all its employees.
    • Capital Metro's Sustainability Team promotes and encourages environmental protection within the agency.

MULTIMEDIA ELEMENTS
Graph of CO2 emissions Taking public transportation far exceeds the benefits of other energy saving household activities, such as using energy efficient light bulbs or adjusting thermostats. ("Public Transportation Reduces Greenhouse Gases and Conserves Energy," American Public Transportation Association, 2008)

QUOTES

  • "Failing to meet the new air quality standards will have a negative affect on our local economy and our overall well-being. In order to preserve the quality of life in central Texas, we must take action now to reduce harmful greenhouse gases."

    -- Fred Gilliam, Capital Metro President/CEO

ABOUT CAPITAL METRO
Capital Metro's mission is to provide quality public transportation choices for our community that meet the needs of our growing region. With the highest per capita ridership in Texas, Capital Metro serves more than 3,000 bus stops with metro, flyer and express routes, downtown `Dillo circulator routes and UT Shuttle service. Capital Metro also provides MetroAccess service for passengers with disabilities, van and carpool coordination, and freight rail service.

Capital MetroRail is a new passenger rail system expected to begin soon between the City of Leander and the Convention Center in Downtown Austin. MetroRail is part of the All Systems Go Long-Range Transit Plan that includes expanded local and express bus service, MetroRapid bus service, and new and improved park and ride lots. For more information, including an online trip planner and a commute cost calculator, visit www.capmetro.org or call (512) 474-1200.

SAFETY TIP OF THE DAY
As a bus approaches, be sure you are standing away from the street. Never try to catch a moving bus.

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line seperatorCapital Metropolitan Transportation Authority
2910 East 5th Street | Austin, Texas 78702 | (512) 389-7400
Specific Route Information | (512) 474-1200