In 1–2 sentences, identify the relationship between rail availability and levels of public transportation usage suggested by this data.
In 1–2 sentences, describe the way in which public transportation usage is more sustainable than individual use of gasoline-powered cars.
In 2–3 sentences, analyze the relationship between sprawl and the use of public transportation, and then explain steps cities can take to increase sustainability.
The data suggests that areas with greater rail availability have higher levels of public transportation usage, indicating that access to rail systems can encourage more sustainable transportation habits.
Public transportation usage is more sustainable than individual use of gasoline-powered cars because it reduces carbon emissions, decreases traffic congestion, and conserves resources by transporting multiple passengers in one vehicle.
Sprawl often decreases the viability of public transportation by spreading out development and making it more difficult to create efficient public transportation routes. Cities can increase sustainability by implementing urban planning policies that promote denser, mixed-use development near public transportation hubs and investing in improved public transportation infrastructure. Additionally, providing incentives for people to use public transportation, such as discounted fares or improved service quality, can help increase ridership and reduce reliance on cars.