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NJ TRANSIT, THE WAY TO GO GREEN FOR EARTH DAY AND EVERY DAY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 20, 2018
NEWARK, NJ -- As Earth Day approaches, NJ TRANSIT is highlighting the role mass transit plays in reducing our carbon footprint and helping the environment.
“We all bear a responsibility in doing our part to improve air quality and protect the planet for future generations,’’ said NJ TRANSIT Executive Director Kevin Corbett. “The simple act of taking a train, bus or light rail vehicle instead of a personal car helps keep roads less congested, helps reduce our carbon footprint by cutting carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases being released into the air we all breathe. A small step like using mass transit can help keep our world clean.’’
In 2016, which is the latest available data, NJ TRANSIT estimates that it displaced 3.6 million tons of greenhouse gases.
In addition to providing environmentally friendly mass transit options, NJ TRANSIT works diligently as a corporation to protect the environment throughout the year with the following efforts:
NJ TRANSIT has upgraded the lighting at its Headquarters building in Newark and its General Office Building in Maplewood with more efficient fluorescent lights. Additionally, 21 electric motors at Headquarters were upgraded to more efficient variable frequency drive motors. Estimated annual savings are 1.4 million kWhs or $140,000 and results in 1.42 million pounds of CO2 emissions reduction.
Additionally, the lighting at the Meadows Maintenance Complex (MMC) in Kearny has been upgraded with intelligent light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures throughout the facility. The new lighting system has built-in occupancy and day-light sensors, wireless networking and integrated controls. Estimated annual savings are 3.3 million kWhs or $386,062 and results in 3.45 million pounds of CO2 emissions reduction.
The Use of Solar
A solar photovoltaic system on the roof of the MMC generates 819 thousand kWhs of renewable emission-free electricity preventing 1.07 million pounds of CO2 emissions.
NJ TRANSIT participates in the Local Government Energy Audit offered by New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program, identifying energy-efficient cost savings, reducing operating expenses and improving the health and productivity of the buildings' occupants. This year, audits are scheduled for the Howell Bus Garage, Newton Avenue Bus Garage, Hamilton Bus Garage, and the Vehicle Base Facility – Bloomfield.
Also, NJ TRANSIT has completed energy audits at the Metropark Rail Station and New Brunswick Rail Station to generalize some of the more common energy conservation measures found at rail stations and empower staff to replace equipment with more energy efficient equipment.
Another example of how NJ TRANSIT promotes green living is through its “Adopt-A-Station Program.’’ Since 1998, NJ TRANSIT has implemented this program to enhance the beauty of NJ TRANSIT’s train stations while encouraging community involvement. The volunteers agree to pick up litter around the station building at least four times a year and they have the option of planting flowers, small trees or shrubs.
“These volunteers serve a vital role in brightening up train stations and inspiring civic pride. It’s an easy way for the public to get more involved within their own community,’’ Executive Director Corbett said.
There are now 15 stations that have been “adopted.’’ Interested groups or individuals should contact 973-491-7032 for more details on how to become involved.
Earth Day is celebrated annually worldwide to show support for environmental protection. The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970.
About NJ TRANSIT
NJ TRANSIT is the nation's largest statewide public transportation system providing more than 944,000 weekday trips on 252 bus routes, three light rail lines, 12 commuter rail lines and through Access Link paratransit service. It is the third largest transit system in the country with 165 rail stations, 62 light rail stations and more than 18,000 bus stops linking major points in New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.