OAKLAND, Calif. (July 27, 2017)—Today, the LA Metro Board of Directors voted to transition its entire bus fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2030. The decision by the second largest transit agency in the United States will have a lasting impact on Los Angeles’ efforts to clean the air, fight climate change and expand residents’ economic opportunities, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).
Below is a statement by Dr. Jimmy O’Dea, a vehicles analyst at UCS. O’Dea is a clean vehicle, freight technology and transportation policy expert.
“LA Metro’s vote marks a historic point in the transition to zero-emission vehicles. As the second largest transit agency in the United States, LA Metro’s decision sends a strong message about the significant role electric vehicles can play in reducing emissions from public transportation, improving air quality and providing good, local manufacturing jobs.
“The commitment made today shows what can be accomplished when concerned citizens present the case for a healthier future and when dedicated public servants heed the call to solve the most pressing challenges facing our cities and state.
“Electric buses on today’s grid are a lot less polluting than the natural gas buses currently on the road. These benefits will increase as Los Angeles’ grid gets cleaner per state standards and local commitments to use cleaner energy sources.
“This is an exciting time for clean vehicles and public transit. Los Angeles’ air quality and Angelenos’ health will improve as LA Metro’s new electric buses hit the road.”
O’Dea’s most recent reports and analyses include “Delivering Opportunity: How Electric Buses and Trucks Can Create Jobs and Improve Public Health in California,” and most recently, “The Promises and Limits of Biomethane as a Transportation Fuel.” Previously, he worked on Capitol Hill developing energy and climate policies on carbon pricing, renewable energy tax credits and deforestation.