Taken by Megan Terebus, December 2000
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Taken by Megan Terebus, December 2000
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Transportation as an Environmental Indicator
Total energy consumption is broken down into 4 sectors, residential, commercial, industrial, and transportation. In Rhode Island, the transportation sector ranks first among the four sectors in consumption. Not only does this energy consumption from transportation have effects on the environment by emitting greenhouse gases, but it also affects a Rhode Islander's way of life. While the population of Rhode Island has decreased over the past 10 years, statistics have shown that most Rhode Islanders travel alone in their cars. The average vehicle miles traveled and travel time for a single occupant vehicle is increasing. Households are increasing their number of vehicles and as a result, the number of vehicles per capita in Rhode Island is increasing.
The statistics illustrated on the following pages are interesting in that they show the trends of transportation throughout the '90s in Rhode Island. After examining the numbers, it becomes evident that in order to make any progress over the next 10 years, we need to evaluate more than just the statistics. We need to investigate peoples' behaviors and attitudes toward transportation.
Sources:
Energy Information Administration Website. Nov. 19, 2000.
Rhode Island Department of Administration. Transportation 2020: Ground Transportation Plan. State Guide Plan Element 611. Report Number 96. November 1998. Statewide Planning Program. One Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908.
Where do I go from here within transportation? Greenhouse Gases