Singapore’s government has set a target to reduce carbon emissions in the country by 36% by 2030. One of the key areas of focus is the transportation sector, which contributes to a significant portion of the country’s carbon footprint. The use of sustainable transport initiatives can help meet these targets while also promoting a healthier and more eco-friendly lifestyle. In this article, we explore the future of sustainable transportation in Singapore.
Public Transport
Singapore has one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems and continues to invest in modernizing the network. The government has pledged to increase the usage of public transportation to 75% by 2030, up from the current 66%. One of the key initiatives to improve public transport is the ongoing construction of the Thomson-East Coast Line, which will improve connectivity and reduce travel time for commuters. In addition, the government has set aside funds to improve cycling infrastructure and promote active mobility.
Electric buses are also being introduced into the public transportation network. As of 2021, Singapore has 60 electric buses in operation, and the government plans to add another 2,000 electric buses in the coming years. These electric buses are not only environmentally friendly, but they are also quieter and provide a smoother ride for passengers.
Personal Transport
While public transport is the backbone of Singapore’s transport system, there is still a significant number of private vehicles on the roads. The government has introduced measures to encourage the adoption of low-emission vehicles. For example, there are tax rebates for the purchase of electric cars, and electric motorcycles are exempt from road tax. The installation of EV charging stations throughout the island is also being expanded to promote the usage of electric vehicles.
In addition, active mobility is being promoted through the development of cycling infrastructure, such as cycling paths and bike racks. The government has also introduced measures to encourage the usage of personal mobility devices (PMDs), such as e-scooters and e-bikes, which are more energy-efficient than cars and can reduce traffic congestion. However, new regulations have been introduced to enforce higher safety standards and control the use of PMDs.
New Technologies
The development of new transportation technologies provides new opportunities for sustainable transport. Singapore is currently trialing autonomous buses and taxis, which can reduce the number of vehicles on the roads and improve road safety. Autonomous shuttles are also being tested in some neighborhoods. Another promising technology being tested in Singapore is electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. These vehicles can be used as air taxis and can reduce travel time and congestion on the roads. Singapore is positioning itself as a hub for eVTOL technology development, with key players such as Volocopter and Joby Aviation already setting up offices in the country.
Conclusion
Singapore has made significant progress in promoting sustainable transportation initiatives, but there are still opportunities to do more. The adoption of electric vehicles, the expansion of cycling infrastructure, and the development of new technologies can all contribute to reducing Singapore’s carbon footprint and improving the quality of life for its citizens. As Singapore continues on the path to becoming a smart city, the use of sustainable transport options will be a key factor in achieving its sustainability goals. Dive deeper into the topic and discover new viewpoints with this specially selected external content. the arden!
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