13 Mind-Blowing Benefits of Public Transportation

With the rising size of pollution and an ongoing climate crisis, authorities around the globe have been taking many preventive measures and initiatives to preserve the environment. One such significant initiative is increased awareness and promotions for using public transportation.

To make things easier for people and ensure they experience convenience while using public transport, many countries worldwide have made elaborate and well-maintained public transportation systems. But to ensure the strategy really works, it is important that the general public understands the benefits of public transportation and actually utilises it in their daily lives. So, what are the advantages of public transport? Let’s find out!

Why Use Public Transportation?

As the global population continues to rise, so does the demand for efficient and sustainable transportation. The increasing number of private vehicles on the road leads to congestion, safety concerns, and the constant need for new infrastructure. Public transportation offers effective solutions to these challenges, providing numerous benefits that make it an essential choice for modern living. 

Modes of transportation like buses, trains and tubes can carry many people in a single go and thus can bring down the need for more private vehicles. More convenient options of public transportation like shared cabs and carpooling can also be an effective choice in case of airport pick-ups or going to work every day. Using public transport can also positively impact the environment and help you live a proper lifestyle. With this, you learn about more such ways to live a sustainable life. Here are some key reasons to use public transportation:

1. Reduces traffic congestion

2. Improves road safety

3. Cost-effective alternative

4. Social inclusion and accessibility

Now, let’s dive into some of the most common benefits of public transportation:

Environmental Benefits of Public Transportation 

There are some very significant advantages of public transport to the environment. Using public transportation reduces the usage of privately owned cars and other vehicles, which can positively impact the planet. Let’s learn more about the benefits of public transportation in detail: 

1. Reduced Air Pollution 

Vehicles that run on fossil fuels are one of the biggest sources of air pollution. When fuels like petrol and diesel are burnt in the vehicle, emissions of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide happen. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), transportation accounts for approximately 29% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest contributor to air pollution.

One of the most significant benefits of public transportation is its ability to reduce air pollution. A single bus can replace up to 40 private cars, and a full train can take hundreds of cars off the road. According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), using public transit reduces the carbon footprint of each passenger by 45%, contributing significantly to lower overall emissions. As more and more people use public transportation, the number of vehicles on the road decreases, thus reducing air pollution. As a result, the air quality of the urban areas increases, contributing to a better lifestyle. 

2. Preservation of Green Spaces 

As the number of cars on the road increases, the need for new and better roads improves, too. This unending loop of infrastructural needs can lead to diminished green spaces in urban areas, ruin the local biodiversity and create more congested living conditions for people. Using public transport can help decrease this rising demand for more roads, thus contributing to less deforestation and saving the disappearing green patches in cities. 

According to a study by the National Academy of Sciences, urban sprawl can reduce green spaces by as much as 20% in some areas, severely impacting local ecosystems. On the other hand, the resources used to create new roads can now be redirected towards redesigning and improving existing infrastructure. 

3. Reduced Carbon Footprint 

Carbon footprints are the total amount of greenhouse gases (majorly carbon dioxide) emitted during an activity. One of the biggest benefits of public transportation options like shared cabs, carpools, buses, tubes and trains is that they can carry more than one passenger at a time. Naturally, the pollutants created during transit are comparatively less than in traditional car ownership. 

According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), public transportation produces nearly 50% less CO2 per passenger mile compared to private vehicles. Additionally, a study from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) found that a single person switching to public transit can reduce their annual carbon emissions by up to 4,800 pounds, equivalent to the carbon sequestration of 100 trees in a year. This results in reduced carbon burning, and thus, less carbon dioxide is produced. This directly translates into fewer carbon footprints and a greener future ahead!

4. Increased Fuel Efficiency 

With public transport options carrying more people than individually owned vehicles at once, it is evident that public transport is more efficient. However, this efficiency isn’t just prevalent regarding carbon footprints. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, public transportation is nearly twice as fuel-efficient as private cars, with buses using 8.7% less energy per passenger mile and trains using up to 15% less energy. One of the most significant benefits of mass transit is that fossil fuels and energy are used efficiently, i.e. far less petrol and diesel usage happens when more people take the bus. 

5. Reduced Noise Pollution 

With more congested roads, traffic jams and accidents become more common. Naturally, you can expect a lot of honking and other vehicle noises in such scenarios. These noises may seem insignificant in theory, but they contribute to a more significant issue: noise pollution. High levels of noise pollution in urban areas can contribute to many concerns and negative impacts on living beings, including humans and non-human species. Studies show that a typical city bus can replace up to 40 cars, which not only eases traffic congestion but also reduces the overall noise levels. Reduced number of vehicles on the road and, thus, decreased noise pollution are some of the benefits of public transportation. 

Social Benefits of Public Transportation

Now that you know about the environmental advantages of public transport, it is fascinating to know that many social benefits come with utilising public transport. These social benefits of using public transport include increased affordability, mobility, social inclusion and much more! So, let’s dive into the social benefits of mass transit in detail: 

6. More Mobility 

One of the social benefits of public transportation is that you get more seamless mobility than private cars and other vehicles. Since buses and trains follow fixed routes, the connectivity you get through public transportation is subpar compared to privately owned vehicles.

According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), 87% of public transit trips directly connect people to vital services, including jobs and healthcare. However, public transportation connects major spots like tourist places, hospitals, colleges, events grounds, etc., in the city. Thus, buses and trains can actually make these spots more accessible for people and increase social mobility. 

7. Affordable for Everyone

Another one of the very significant benefits of public transportation is that it is affordable for everyone. Usually, the fees you have to pay for using public transportation options like buses, trains or tubes are minimal compared to the investment in a private vehicle. The availability of passes for public transportation also makes these modes more affordable and accessible for people. Some studies show that households that use public transit save an average of $10,000 annually by reducing expenses related to fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance. 

Especially if you are a student, the economic benefits of public transportation can be manifold and very significant as it is very light on your student account. Rising gas prices are also a concern when you have a private car as your primary means of transportation. However, using public transportation frequently can resolve such concerns and ensure affordable transportation for everyone. 

8. Time-Efficiency and Safety 

More vehicles on the road cause traffic congestion, jams and even gridlocks. Such issues can increase the travel time for people on the road. The congestion can also be dangerous since it may lead to more road accidents. 

According to the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, commuters in major cities can save an average of 50 hours annually by using public transit instead of driving in congested traffic. However, with more people using public transport options, the daily commute can become significantly more time-efficient and safe, the same way availing an airport pickup service does for first-time commutes in a new city.

9. Social Inclusion 

With hyper-individualism on the rise, social seclusion and loneliness have become prominent problems for people. Public transportation, conversely, can breed a sense of belonging in people and thus help people build better communities. Public transportation like buses and trains encourage interactions between people, creating shared experiences and ensuring mental well-being for the masses.

Approximately 64% of public transit riders report feeling more connected to their communities, highlighting the role of public transportation in building stronger, more inclusive communities. Thus, better social inclusion and community building are some of the most unconventional but significant benefits of public transportation.

10. Healthy and Disciplined Lifestyles

Rarely will public transportation stop at exactly where you live or need to go. So, if you take the bus to your destination every day, it is only natural that you might have to do some walking or running every day. This can encourage people to live a healthy lifestyle, as one of the many benefits of public transportation. A study by the American Heart Association found that public transit users walk an average of 8.3 minutes to and from transit stops daily, which contributes to improved cardiovascular health and reduced obesity rates

 It can encourage people to be more disciplined in their routine life since they have to be punctual to catch public transport. Daily exercise and walking can help people become healthier with decreased chances of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, stroke, etc. And if you are a student, it will definitely help you avoid the freshman 15! 

Economic Benefits of Public Transportation

Now that you understand the social benefits of public transport, it is equally important to recognize the significant economic advantages that come with it. These economic benefits of using public transport include cost savings, job creation, increased productivity, and much more! So, let’s explore the economic benefits of mass transit in detail:

11. Cost Savings for Individuals and Households

One of the primary economic benefits of public transportation is the considerable cost savings it offers to individuals and households. The expenses associated with owning and maintaining a private vehicle, such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can be significantly higher than the costs of using public transit. Do you know? Families that use public transit can save up to $10,000 annually by reducing expenses on fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance. By opting for buses, trains, or subways, individuals can save money, which can be redirected to other essential needs.

12. Job Creation and Economic Development

Public transportation systems are vital for job creation and economic development. The construction, maintenance, and operation of public transit systems create thousands of jobs in various sectors, including engineering, manufacturing, and service industries. In fact, every $1 billion invested in public transit supports approximately 50,000 jobs across various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and operations. Moreover, efficient public transportation supports local businesses by increasing foot traffic in commercial areas, leading to higher sales and economic growth. 

13. Reduced Traffic Congestion

Another significant economic benefit of public transportation is the increase in productivity it brings by reducing traffic congestion. Traffic congestion not only wastes time but also results in substantial economic losses due to delayed deliveries, missed appointments, and lost work hours. According to the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, traffic congestion costs U.S. drivers nearly $87 billion annually in lost time and fuel. Public transportation can alleviate these issues by reducing the number of vehicles on the road, leading to smoother traffic flow and shorter commute times

Countrywise Best Public Transport Alternatives

Public transportation systems vary widely across the globe, with certain countries standing out for their exceptional networks. Whether you’re a resident or a traveller, knowing the best public transport alternatives in these countries can make your commute smoother and more efficient. Below are the top 5 countries renowned for their public transportation options:

1. United Kingdom

The UK boasts a highly developed and efficient public transport system, particularly in cities like London. The London Underground, or "the Tube," is one of the world’s oldest and most comprehensive metro systems. Additionally, buses, trams, and overground trains provide extensive coverage across the country. For those travelling between cities, the UK's National Rail service offers fast and reliable train services. Know more about this, in our blog on ultimate guide to transportation in the UK.

2. United States

While public transportation quality varies by city, the U.S. has some outstanding systems in places like New York City, Washington D.C., and San Francisco. The New York City Subway is one of the most extensive and busiest in the world, offering 24/7 service. In other cities, alternatives like buses, trams, and ferries complement the public transport network, making commuting convenient and accessible.

3. Australia

Australia’s major cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, have well-developed public transport systems that include trains, buses, and ferries. The Sydney Trains network is particularly notable for its coverage and reliability. Melbourne’s tram network is one of the largest in the world, providing easy access to the city and its suburbs. Public transport in Australia is known for its punctuality and ease of use, making it a preferred choice for daily commutes.

4. Ireland

Ireland offers a robust public transport system, especially in Dublin. The Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) and Luas light rail system are highly efficient, connecting key areas within the city. Buses and intercity trains also play a significant role in Ireland's public transport, making it easy to travel both within and between cities. 

5. Germany

Germany is renowned for its punctual and efficient public transport system. Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have comprehensive networks of U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses. The Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) offers high-speed intercity trains (ICE) that connect major cities across the country, providing a fast and comfortable alternative to driving. 

Using public transport as your primary means of daily travel is one of the many benefits of public transportation that cannot be ignored. Be it the preservation of the environment or the social benefits for us humans, the benefits of public transportation can be a great motivation. So, buckle up, take the bus and save the world!!