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.

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • Cascadia Sales Representing Eaton in BC

    Cascadia Sales Representing Eaton in BC

    May 21, 2026 Cascadia Sales are thrilled to announce that effective May 11, 2026, they will officially be representing an expanded portfolio of Eaton brands across British Columbia. “Adding Crouse-Hinds, B-Line, Bussmann, and Cooper Power series to our lineup allows us to provide even more comprehensive electrical solutions to our BC partners,” the company said Read More…

  • Nedco Opens New Kelowna Branch

    Nedco Opens New Kelowna Branch

    May 21, 2026 In a recent announcement from Nedco, the company celebrated the Grand Opening of the new Kelowna branch on Friday, May 8, 2026. Nedco invited attendees to explore the new 11,000 sq. ft. facility designed to conveniently serve Okanagan customers. The tour of the new facility took place from 11:00 AM to 2:00 Read More…

  • Leviton Canada Partners with NRG INTENSI‑T Inc. to Strengthen the Presence of Lighting Controls in the Quebec Region

    Leviton Canada Partners with NRG INTENSI‑T Inc. to Strengthen the Presence of Lighting Controls in the Quebec Region

    May 21, 2026 Leviton Canada is proud to announce its partnership with NRG INTENSI-T Inc., who will now represent Leviton’s Lighting Controls product line throughout the Quebec region, effective May 1, 2026. This new partnership reflects Leviton’s commitment to strengthening its lighting controls presence in Quebec through experienced, market-focused representation. With deep regional knowledge, an Read More…

  • Mac’s II Agencies Expands ABB Partnership into UPS Solutions

    Mac’s II Agencies Expands ABB Partnership into UPS Solutions

    May 21, 2026 As demand increases for resilient, always-on power for commercial, industrial, and mission-critical environments, Mac’s II Agencies is strengthening its Power Quality portfolio with ABB systems engineered for diverse conditions. With a broad range of sizes and configurations available, engineers, contractors, and end users can specify power backup and protection solutions with continued confidence, backed Read More…