Move Beyond Oil!
Contributing nearly forty percent of greenhouse gas emissions, transportation is the single greatest source of global warming pollutants in California. Driving also produces fine particulate matter (PM2), nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon dioxide. All these pollutants cause serious health problems, especially in children. In addition, the roads necessary to support California’s insatiable appetite for driving cut through natural habitats, destroying mating and hunting grounds, and devastating California wilderness.
The price of driving is becoming unmanageable. Revenues from the gas tax is already too measly to cover the costs of maintaining our roads, and as cars become more and more fuel efficient, these revenues will dwindle further. The gas tax is a flat, per gallon tax, so although gas prices are steadily rising, increasing the financial strain of driving on California residents, the gas tax revenue is actually decreasing.
As the most populous state of the Union, California contributes greatly to America’s dependence on oil, which leaves us economically and politically vulnerable to gas price shocks. Current transportation priorities in California are unsustainable and unhealthy, and it is time for Californians to demand a change.
Sierra Club California and our supporters have great opportunities to reduce oil dependence and pollution by:
- Establishing ambitious and achievable strategies at the regional level, through the 18 Metropolitan Planning Organizations, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from driving.
- Investing in transit and mobility choices such as increased bus service, high speed rail, light rail, biking and walking, while ensuring safe roads for all.
- Creating livable communities that link transportation choices and affordable housing with schools, shops, and other amenities.
- Prioritizing the repair and maintenance of existing roads, bridges, and transit before building new highways.
By reducing vehicle miles traveled, California can improve our air quality and health, reduce road wear and congestion, and put a stop to the economic and political vulnerability caused by our oil addiction! Click on the images below to learn more!
Air Quality and Health
Oil Addiction
Road Safety and Congestion
