Our Sustainability Efforts

DOT is committed to sustainability leadership. DOT defines sustainability as the integration of energy, environmental, economic and social considerations into the Department’s mission, programs and day-to-day operations. This means that DOT employees at all levels must be responsible and accountable for integrating sustainability stewardship into day-to-day activities to reduce the Department’s direct and indirect energy and environmental impact and to protect our natural resources.

Incorporating sustainable practices into the Department’s mission and operations is also a sound business practice. It promotes energy and natural resource conservation, decreases emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and other pollutants, enhances the workplace by minimizing hazardous materials and chemicals, and advances our national interest in increasing energy efficiency and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

DOT Committed to Sustainability

Sustainability is not a new concept for DOT. To the contrary, over the past several years, DOT has taken a number of measures to reduce energy consumption and enhance the environment while improving and modernizing transportation systems and spurring economic growth. These efforts include:

  • Making historic investments in high speed rail
  • NextGen satellite technology for air traffic
  • Implementing ambitious new fuel economy standards for cars and trucks
  • Funding more integrated, more efficient intermodal transportation systems
  • Providing transportation alternatives and funding for cleaner public transit bus fleets
  • Developing America’s marine highways
  • Reducing risks and improving reliability of transporting hazardous materials

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Read the Full Plan

Updated: Thursday, February 7, 2013