Transportation & Land Use

Transportation is the fastest-growing greenhouse gas emissions sector in Vermont, representing almost half of the state’s total greenhouse gas pollution. While the rural nature of the Green Mountain State means that many Vermonters rely on their cars to get where they need to go, there are opportunities to expand other transportation options.

Energy committees and volunteer groups can help reverse the growth in greenhouse gas emissions by identifying ways to encourage the use of clean transportation options.  Creating convenient and affordable travel options (i.e., biking, walking, taking the bus, van-pooling, riding the train, and carpooling) is essential to reduce our reliance on volatile fossil fuels and create vibrant, resilient 21st-century communities.

Planning our community with compact downtown centers and housing where we work and play is also essential to reducing energy costs related to transportation.  Below, find links to organizations and resources that can help you tackle the transportation and land use issues facing your community.

Local energy groups have helped organize and participate in numerous events featuring EVs. Hosting an event in your community is easy.

Here are a few ideas:

• Display an EV at a community event, such as a farmers’ market.

• Create an EV-focused event, such as an EV demonstration with test drives/rides, workshops, etc.

• Teach a lesson on EV’s at your local high school

• Promote workplace or public EV charging

• Check out the Electric Vehicle Planning Resources provided by the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission and Drive Electric Vermont. These tools include infrastructure planning guides, charging station information, and far more to help your community prepare for the future of transportation.