Lowering The Speed Limit To 50 MPH Could Reduce CO2 By 30%

by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 06.10.10

CARS & TRANSPORTATION

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image via Wired

TreeHugger previously suggested six good reasons for lowering the speed limit; now, Wired points us to a new Dutch study that adds a seventh: Lowering the speed limit to 50 MPH can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 30%. They appropriately title their postSlow Down and Spare the Planet

Part of the reduction comes from the direct correlation between speed and fuel consumption, but the real impact would come from behavioural changes; people would tend to shift to other, faster modes of travel, and will probably tend to move closer to where they work.

Wired questions their logic, particularly as it applies to America

See more at: http://www.treehugger.com/files/2010/06/slow-down-save-planet.php?campaign=weekly_nl