Environmental Relief

As the backbone of one of the nation’s most highly acclaimed transit system, Metro use impacts the environment positively versus vehicle use. We as a society (both globally and locally) are growing more and more aware of the impact of our actions on the environment. Metro is doing its part to improve the quality of life and environment today, as well as for generations to come. Environmental relief offer includes:

Improving air quality – 30% of Metro buses use renewable bio‐fuels or compressed gas and all MetroLink trains are powered by electricity. The St. Louis Regional Clean Air Partnership deems MetroLink one of the best options to reduce emissions in the region.

Reducing dependence on foreign oil – public transit in the US saves 1.4 billion gallons of gasoline each year, an average of 4 million gallons of gas each day.

Promoting smart growth – strengthening the suburbs inner rings and creating more opportunities for Transit Oriented Development (TOD), which makes neighborhoods better connected and more livable (especially vital regional centers like downtown St. Louis and Clayton).

In November we have the opportunity to keep St. Louis on the right track by voting Yes on Proposition M. Now is our time to invest in our region’s future: our children’s future in the region. With the successful passage of Proposition M, we will move forward –together.

Energy related carbon dioxide emissions represent 82% of total human made greenhouse emissions. Using public transit can lower this number significantly.

Public transit is saving 6.9 million tons of net carbon dioxide emissions per year (based on 2005 figures) and 400,000 tons of other green house gases.

Public transit produces 95% less carbon monoxide, 90% less in volatile organic compounds, and about half as much nitrogen oxide per passenger mile as a private vehicle.

A household can reduce their carbon footprint by 25%-30% if one person makes the switch from a commute via car to a commute by public transit.

A solo commuter that switches from a car to public transit reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 4,800 lbs per year.

Public transit saves 1.4 billion gallons of gasoline annually, representing 4 million gallons of gasoline per day, the equivalent of 300,000 fewer automobile fill ups per day.