New climate-focused Build Green Act targets $500 billion in transportation reform

Sen. Elizabeth Warren proposes a $500 billion investment in green transportation to combat U.S. carbon emissions, aiming to modernize infrastructure and boost the economy.

Marianne Lavelle reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• The Build Green Act focuses on reducing carbon emissions by allocating significant funds to public transit and green infrastructure projects.
• Priority will be given to projects that support collective transportation and reduce air pollution, emphasizing environmental justice.
• The legislation also includes provisions for labor standards and equitable distribution of funds to rural and disadvantaged communities.

Key quote:

"The time to accelerate towards a clean energy future is now. Modernizing our transportation grid will pump billions into the economy, create green union jobs, and safeguard against the worst effects of climate change. That’s good news across the board."

— Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

Why this matters:

Green transportation encompasses a variety of technologies including electric vehicles (EVs), high-speed rail systems, and expanded public transit networks. These technologies not only promise to reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional combustion engines but also aim to overhaul the commuting experience by offering faster, cleaner, and more efficient alternatives.

Related EHN coverage:

• The role of electric vehicles in the push for environmental justice
• LISTEN: Regan Patterson on transportation justice
• Black communities must lead the charge to repair harm from freeways