Transportation authorities APTA grant Sustainability Commitment program awards to DART and Pierce Transit for their environmental efforts
In a commendable effort towards climate responsibility, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and Pierce Transit have been awarded Gold and Silver recognition respectively, in the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Sustainability Commitment program.
## Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) - Gold Recognition
DART's Gold recognition is a testament to their sustained commitment to sustainability. Key initiatives driving this achievement include:
- **Infrastructure Upgrades**: A comprehensive overhaul was undertaken following the completion of an Investment Grade Audit (IGA) Report in 2021, which paved the way for energy-efficient and environmentally responsible public transit systems[1][2]. - **Energy-Efficient Lighting**: By installing LED lighting across all buildings, rail station facilities, and parking areas, coupled with the use of occupancy sensors and motion detectors, DART significantly reduced energy consumption in parking lots and garages by up to 40%[1][2]. - **Renewable Energy**: A significant milestone was reached in 2022 when DART secured a new electricity contract sourced entirely from renewable energy. Within two years, DART transitioned to 100% renewable electricity for all facilities and light-rail operations[2].
## Pierce Transit - Silver Recognition
While specific details about Pierce Transit's practices are less comprehensive, the Silver recognition signifies measurable progress in reducing environmental impact and enhancing the quality of life for its community[1][2]. Some notable achievements include:
- **Wastewater Reduction**: Pierce Transit opened a facility that reduces wastewater by 90%[1]. - **Sustainable Practices**: Pierce Transit recycles fluids and materials and coordinates employee transportation benefit programs with local businesses[1]. - **Future Goals**: Pierce Transit aims to achieve 100% electrification of its revenue fleet by 2042[1].
The APTA Sustainability Commitment program is a voluntary initiative where public transit agencies and businesses pledge to implement practices that continuously advance environmental, social, and economic sustainability goals. Both DART and Pierce Transit have demonstrated their commitment to this program, with DART recognized for its strategic infrastructure upgrades and long-standing commitment to clean energy, and Pierce Transit for its ongoing efforts towards sustainability.
Over the years, DART has maintained a strong focus on sustainability, with its bus fleet operating on compressed renewable natural gas (CRNG) for nearly a decade[1]. Similarly, Pierce Transit has kept sustainability at the forefront since piloting CNG buses in 1986[1]. Both transit agencies have made significant strides in reducing their total emissions, with Pierce Transit reducing its emissions by 19% (adjusted for service levels) since 2017[1]. DART buses produce 75% fewer emissions than gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles[1].
The APTA has acknowledged these efforts, with DART receiving Gold recognition and Pierce Transit receiving Silver recognition in the APTA Sustainability Commitment program. These recognitions underscore the commitment of these transit agencies to a greener and more sustainable future.
- Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has significantly reduced energy consumption in parking lots and garages by up to 40%, accomplished through the installation of LED lighting and the use of occupancy sensors and motion detectors.
- In 2022, DART transitioned to 100% renewable electricity for all facilities and light-rail operations, marking a significant milestone in their pursuit of clean energy.
- Pierce Transit opened a facility that reduces wastewater by 90%, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability.
- By coordinating employee transportation benefit programs with local businesses and recycling fluids and materials, Pierce Transit is striving to reduce its environmental impact and enhance the quality of life for its community.
