Public transportation is an essential component of sustainable mobility and urban development, and Germany is a shining example of how a country can achieve a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system. The German approach to sustainable public transportation is a result of a long-term vision and strategy that involves different levels of government, public and private operators, civil society, and users.
One of the key factors that have contributed to the success of public transportation in Germany is the pricing and taxation policy. The government has imposed high taxes on gasoline and diesel, making driving more expensive and encouraging people to use public transportation or other modes of transport. Furthermore, public transportation fares are relatively low and often subsidized by local authorities, and there are various discounts and incentives for frequent users. These policies have made public transportation affordable and accessible for all, regardless of their socioeconomic status (5).
Germany has also imposed strict emission standards and speed limits for cars, as well as bans or charges for entering certain low-emission zones or city centers. Additionally, parking spaces are limited and costly in many urban areas, which discourages car ownership and use. The government has also invested in modernizing and expanding its public transportation infrastructure and vehicles, using renewable energy sources, digitalization, automation, and electrification. These technological innovations have made public transportation more efficient, reliable, and sustainable (4).
The German approach to public transportation is also characterized by a high level of integration and coordination among different modes of public transportation at the local, regional, and national levels. There are common timetables, ticketing systems, information platforms, and intermodal hubs that allow users to easily switch from one mode to another. This integration and coordination have made public transportation more user-friendly and convenient (3).
Furthermore, Germany has a strong culture of public participation and awareness regarding environmental issues and sustainable mobility. There are various initiatives and campaigns that involve citizens, NGOs, businesses, schools, and media in promoting public transportation as a social good and a lifestyle choice. These participatory and awareness-raising activities have fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility among the public towards public transportation (2).
While the German approach to sustainable public transportation is inspiring, it may not be entirely transferable to a US context. The US faces various barriers and obstacles that prevent or hinder the development and improvement of public transportation. These include geography and demography, culture and preferences, politics and governance, economics and finance, innovation and regulation.
However, this does not mean that the US cannot learn from the German experience and adapt it to its own context. The US already has some examples of successful public transportation systems in some cities or regions, such as New York City or San Francisco. By studying these successful cases and identifying their strengths and weaknesses, the US can formulate a tailored approach to sustainable public transportation that fits its unique circumstances (2).
Citation:
Sustainable mode of transport choices at the destination – public transport at German destinations | Emerald Insight. (2018, July 4). Retrieved from https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/TR-11-2017-0177/full/html
Puentes, R. (2001, April 27). Move It: How the U.S. Can Improve Transportation Policy. Retrieved from https://www.brookings.edu/opinions/move-it-how-the-u-s-can-improve-transportation-policy/
The future of public participation in Germany: Empirical analyses of administration experts’ assessments. (2015, May 12). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2015.04.013
The Local Europe GmbH. (2023, February 22). Explained: What to know about driving in low emissions zones in Germany. The Local Germany. https://www.thelocal.de/20230222/explained-what-to-know-about-driving-in-low-emissions-zones-in-germany
Kirschbaum, L., & Schade, W. (2017). Transport policy planning in Germany – An analysis of political programmes and user costs. European Transport Research Review, 9(4), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12544-017-0247-7