The Trend of Green Transportation Towards a Sustainable Future
11 Dec, 2024
Green transportation is increasingly important in sustainable development strategies. Many countries have committed to investing in green transportation infrastructure to reduce emissions and protect natural resources; Vietnam is not an exception. Green transportation is not only a current trend but also the foundation for a sustainable future. Let's explore these special types of transportation with the UEH Department of Student Affairs (DSA)!
How is green transportation defined?
According to vovgiaothong.vn, green transportation is a means to limit CO2 and other toxic emissions into the environment. Users of bicycles, electric motorbikes, electric cars, buses running on compressed gas (CNG), electric trains and so on are the participants of green transportation.
Green transport system (Source: Economic - Environmental Electronic Magazine)
Benefits and importance of green transport in sustainable development
Saving energy
One of the outstanding benefits of green transportation is to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, instead of encouraging the use of renewable energy such as solar and wind power. Solar-powered bus systems or electric vehicle charging stations using renewable energy have been deployed in major cities around the world, like San Diego (USA), to save annual fuel costs and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This not only creates a clean and sustainable energy source but also helps cities move closer to the goal of green and sustainable development.
Promoting economic development
Green transport projects protect the environment and bring significant economic benefits. Investing in green transport systems requires the construction and upgrading of infrastructure, creating new jobs in engineering, clean technology and urban management. Concurrently, the development of related industries listed as electric vehicle manufacturing, traffic management software development and renewable energy exploitation helps stimulate investment and sustainable economic growth.
Improving life quality
Green transport is an effective “cure” for those who targets to lead a high-quality life as noise problems will be significantly reduced. Concurrently, green means of transport listed as electric cars, compressed air buses and electric trains can reduce CO2 and limit other pollutants listed as NOx, SOx and fine dust - the main causes of serious diseases listed as asthma, heart disease and respiratory problems, contributing to improving public health. In addition, dedicated bicycle and walking routes help people move conveniently and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
Cities like Amsterdam having implemented green transport policies to help improve the quality of life for residents (Source: Internet)
Green transport vehicles and infrastructure systems in Vietnam
Bicycles - Public bicycle service
Bicycles, as a green means of transport, stands out for its environmental friendliness, high flexibility and zero emissions. In particular, public bicycle services are a smart and effective transport solution, widely deployed in large cities around the world. In Vietnam, Hoi An launched a bike-sharing system on June 2, 2019 to promote the habit of using sustainable means of transport and protecting the environment, on the occasion of World Bicycle Day. This is part of the plan to reduce the use of motorbikes and cars in the inner city to minimize pollution, preserve the cultural heritage and natural landscape of the city. This system is expected to contribute to building the image of Hoi An as a green and eco-tourism-friendly city.
Bicycle system in Hoi An
(Photo source: Thanh Hoa Radio and Television Station)
Bus
The electric bus project marks an important step in the green transportation trend in Vietnam in reducing pollution and promoting the development of sustainable public transportation. With a range of up to 260 km and the ability to quickly charge in approximately 2 hours, the electric bus supports travel and demonstrates the company's commitment to building an environmentally friendly public transportation system.
Electric buses in Vietnam (Source: VinBus)
Walking
This is a simple but effective form of green transportation that helps improve health and reduce pollution. To encourage walking, many cities have improved infrastructure, creating safe and comfortable pedestrian sites. Walking streets not only facilitate transportation but also promote commercial activities and create lively public spaces. Walking streets in Vietnam, listed as Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi and Nguyen Hue in Ho Chi Minh City, are symbols of the green transportation trend, encouraging people to transport without depending on motor vehicles. This space helps reduce air pollution and further promotes outdoor cultural and recreational activities, bringing a cleaner living environment to the community.
UEH Shuttle Bus - A "green" companion for a greener environment
Integrating with the green transportation trend towards a sustainable development future, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) launched the UEH Shuttle Bus service. With suitable routes and stops, UEH Shuttle Bus makes transporting among campuses convenient, safe and fast. This service also contributes to cost savings and environmental protection.
Amenities of UEH Shuttle Bus
- Being fast, safe, convenient and economical.
- The vehicles have from 29 to 45 seats, are spacious, clean, and equipped with air conditioning and optional seating.
- Support booking, cancelling, paying, and tracking schedules via mobile app.
In addition, in order to improve the experience and ensure the rights of students when using public transport services in Ho Chi Minh City, UEH has implemented the use of electronic student cards to replace traditional physical student cards. Students using electronic student cards receive discounts on tickets and can easily participate in bus services in the city.
In short, the green transportation trend is not only a solution but also a shared responsibility for a sustainable future. With initiatives like shared bicycles, buses and electric vehicles, Vietnam is on the way towards building a modern, environmentally friendly transportation system, reducing emissions and protecting public health. We need everyone's cooperation - from choosing to use green public transportation to supporting the development of policies to encourage sustainable transportation. Every small action will contribute to creating big changes towards a greener and safer life for future generations. As a green citizen of UEH, let's start today, for a cleaner world!
News and photos: UEH Department of Student Affairs (DSA)
