Our Reality: Public Transport

Public transportation is an essential service around the world - in Great Britain alone, approximately 8.3 billion passenger journeys are completed on public transport every year. Public transport can help make cities more accessible, reduce carbon emissions, and help to strengthen local economies.

But these systems aren't perfect. As public transport ages, infrastructure problems, overcrowding, and congestion can become serious concerns. As living costs rise and residents are forced to move further out of city centres, public transport commutes can lengthen, affecting productivity and quality of living. Public transportation systems such as trams and buses often do not consider non-motorised transport, causing safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists. And worldwide, public transport can be Ground Zero for the homelessness epidemic, with many unhoused people using transport as overnight shelters, with concerns regarding safety and hygeine.

So how can we change public transport for the better? Passenger advocacy groups like New York City's Straphangers and Auckland's Campaign for Better Transport highlight the issues of these vital but flawed systems. As our communities grow, it's essential that we think of new and innovative ways to get people from point A to point B.

More bike lanes can improve health and wellbeing and reduce air pollution. Strong train and bus networks can help to build a stronger sense of community among residents. For every $1 invested in public transport, approximately $4 is returned to the local economy. Bus, tram, and train operations can free up time for commuters, leaving them with more time to invest in their favorite books, podcasts, or TV shows, and public transport users on average get more exercise than those who drive to work or school.

It's time to make #OurReality stronger for the public transport of the future! The Future of Mobility challenge gives you the opportunity - will you take it?