Trains Overlooked as "Green" Transit

Trains use 20 percent less energy than cars or planes, eliminate road congestion, and reduce emissions. While the Bush Administration wants to end support for Amtrak; Congress wants to expand funding. Parade magazine asks, it worth it?

Funding for Amtrak is at the same rate as 25 years ago, and some want to cut ties with the money losing agency. But a bill that passed the Senate will slightly expand funding, and a separate measure would give more money to the states for trains.

While the cost of keeping Amtrak afloat is relatively small, the argument should focus on the cost of not having functional commuter rail. While ethanol and more fuel efficient cars are getting lots of press, no one is talking about federal strategy for trains.

Technology also plays a part, as diesel hybrid trains from GE and a new prototype in Europe are even more energy efficient.

Photo: Wikimedia