Turning Transportation to Low Carbon

Transportation stands as the second-largest contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Toronto, comprising 33 percent of the total emissions. The usage of fossil fuels to power cars, trucks, ships, trains, and planes leads to GHG emissions. A significant portion (70 percent) of transportation emissions originates from personal vehicles such as cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks utilized by individuals or households.

To align with our 2030 reduction targets and ultimately attain net-zero status by 2040, it is imperative to minimize vehicular trips by transitioning to walking, cycling, or using public transit. Simultaneously, there is a crucial need to expedite the shift from internal combustion vehicles to electric vehicles.

The TransformTO Net Zero Strategy outlines specific transportation goals. By 2030:

There should be about 30 percent of registered electric vehicles in Toronto.

75 percent of school or work trips under 5 km are encouraged more to consider walking, cycling, or the use of public transit.

For additional insights into the City of Toronto’s efforts to support low-carbon transportation alternatives, explore further information.

Cycling

Cycling stands out as one of the rapidly growing transportation modes in Toronto. The City is actively enhancing the safety and appeal of biking, aiming to alleviate street and transit congestion, foster a cleaner environment, and encourage physical activity. For tips on incorporating cycling into your commute, explore Smart Commute (opens in new window).

The City actively promotes cycling by constructing and maintaining infrastructure like bike lanes and multi-use trails, installing bike parking facilities, disseminating bike network maps, and executing campaigns to enhance cycling confidence and promote safe road use behavior. Further details about cycling in Toronto are available.

Walking

Walking proves to be an excellent means of commuting to and from work or school, or reaching a transit station. It leaves no negative impact on the environment and offers both physical and mental health benefits. Walking allows individuals to appreciate their surroundings, explore new parts of the city, and engage in exercise. More information on walking in Toronto is accessible.

Transit

Transit in Toronto comprises an integrated multi-modal system encompassing local and regional services, crucial for the vitality of the city and region. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), the local transit agency, operates the third-largest system in North America. As we work towards modernizing our service, green initiatives are being introduced to align with our goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.

As a commitment to sustainability, the TTC’s bus fleet incorporates three eco-friendly technologies: clean diesel, hybrid electric, and battery electric. Explore more about transit in Toronto.

Electric Vehicles

The transition from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles is pivotal in achieving the City’s target of net-zero GHG emissions by 2040, particularly for trips not covered by walking, cycling, or transit. Electric vehicles bring additional benefits, such as lower operational costs, zero tailpipe emissions contributing to reduced air pollution, and a quieter operation that aids in minimizing noise pollution.

Through its Electric Vehicle Strategy, the City actively supports the adoption of electric vehicles, including facilitating EV charging in homes and workplaces and developing a robust public EV charging network. The City leads by example in electrifying its own fleet and transit vehicles. Explore more about electric vehicles.