Document Actions
Document Actions

How Low-Carbon Can You Go: The Transportation Ranking

Sightline does the math on the most climate-friendly way to travel. We chart CO2 emissions by transportation mode, from an SUV to a plane to a bus. Also shows differences based on occupancy (i.e. full bus vs. half-full bus).

What is the most climate-friendly way to get there from here? Sightline did the math on that question, ranking different transportation options by greenhouse gas emissions (note that rankings vary depending on vehicle type and occupancy). Turns out that the best strategy for reducing your impact: walk, bike, or fill up a seat that's already going your way!


The short version

Click image to see larger version, or download on the right.

Condensed Version - Small


The long version: additional categories and data.


Click image to see larger version, or download on the right.
Expanded Version - Small


See also:

Chart: CO2 Emissions from Fossil Fuels by Sector (chart)
Map: United States of Climate Change (map)
Map: Canada and Climate Change (map)
Sightline's climate policy project

Date range: 2007

Publication date: 2008 | Topic(s): Energy & Climate Sprawl & Transportation | Graphic type: Chart
send feedback or bugs about sightline.org to ask_us@sightline.org
site credits | premium content icon = premium content; free registration required
Updates by Email
News and tools you need to make a difference
Download this graphic
Log in or register for free access to premium content.
Condensed Version-Medium 650x541 px, 72dpi, 44K
Condensed Version - Hi-res 1200x1000 px, 300dpi, 718K
Expanded Version - Medium 650x685 px, 72dpi, 54K
Expanded Version - Hi-res 1200 x 1270 px, 300dpi, 759K
Choosing the right version
Please read our Free Use Policy
Now On the Blog
Float Like a Wind Turbine, Sting Like an Oil Drill
The match of the summer won’t be available on pay-per-view.
Eric Hess 07/18/2008
Snake Oil? Texas Oil Man, Part II
T. Boone Pickens under scrutiny. Still right on about the end of oil.
Anna Fahey 07/17/2008
A Prophetic Approach to Energy Efficiency
Taking a three-day weekend for the planet.
Eric de Place 07/15/2008