4 in 5 Canadians See Electrifying Public Transit as Key to Advancing Climate Action, Schneider Electric Survey Finds

December 13, 2024

Schneider Electric has released new survey findings showing Canadians are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of traditional public transit emissions. According to the survey, 83 per cent of Canadians recognize the need for electrified transit to support a sustainable future and are seeking actionable and innovative solutions to ease the nation’s collective emissions burden.

Key findings from the survey include:

• Electrified Transit Seen as Essential for a Sustainable Future: 83 per cent agree that electrifying public transit plays an important role in making our cities and towns more sustainable.
• Concerns Over Transit Impact are Top of Mind: Nearly 4 in 5 Canadians (78%) express concern over climate change, and 82 per cent recognize the detrimental environmental effects of emissions from traditional transit.
• Public Urges Support for Greener Transit Options: 3 in 4 (75%) of Canadians want to learn more about government incentive programs that support transitioning to more environmentally friendly transit.
• Climate Action Needs a Stronger Push: 74 per cent feel we are not doing enough to combat climate change as a society.
• Environmental Impact Affects Commuting Choices: More than half (56%) of Canadians say they consider the environment when choosing between transportation options.
• Combustion-Engine Transit is a Recognized Environmental Risk: 78 per cent of Canadians believe that if public transit continues to utilize combustion engine vehicles into the future, there will be a negative impact on the environment.

“Emissions are surging faster than at any other time in history and Canadians are sounding the alarm and understanding we’re at a critical point for climate action,” says Frederick Morency, Vice President of Sustainability, Strategic Initiatives & Innovation at Schneider Electric Canada. “Electrifying public transit is one of the most effective steps we can take to curb these emissions, but the pace must increase if we’re to make meaningful progress. Governments, industry leaders, and communities need to prioritize this transition, ensuring Canada can meet its 2030 and 2050 climate commitments. This effort requires a collaborative approach, with all players working together in close coordination to develop innovative solutions, share best practices, and leverage resources. Only through a united front can we drive the necessary changes to create a sustainable and efficient public transit system for future generations.”

Schneider Electric is committed to transforming transportation through advanced energy management solutions. To learn more, visit transportation infrastructure webpage.

To see the full results of the report, visit this link.