Recognizing that the transportation subsector would account for 90% of carbon emissions by 2070, our project addresses this issue. With a focus on achieving SDG 13, we leveraged open-source GPS technology in tackling bus scheduling challenges by maintaining flexible public transport routing systems in Accra, serving as a case study in the global south. This initiative aims to foster long-term advantages like data-driven policy development and reduced climate costs.
Tackling Climate Change by Building Reliance in Public Trans
According to the IEA report (2022), the transportation subsector is on the path of contributing about 90% of carbon emissions by the year 2070. Our project, tackling climate change by building reliance on public transport systems, is dedicated to confronting this challenge head-on. We recognize the critical decision individuals face between residing close to essential amenities and enduring lengthy commutes, often reliant on private transportation methods. This situation increases inequality and social costs, highlighting the urgency for effective public transport systems.
Our initiative aims to build trust and engagement in public transport, particularly in emerging cities like Accra, Ghana, where existing services often fail to meet the needs of regular commuters. Through the development of an open-source GPS-based application, we seek to revolutionize the reliability of public transport by seamlessly integrating real-time scheduling information and flexible routing options into the existing infrastructure. By empowering commuters with tools to anticipate arrivals and enjoy bespoke services, we aim to enhance the overall user experience and encourage a shift away from private vehicle reliance.
The core features of our app include gamification elements, strategic campaigns, and robust community engagement strategies to foster a sense of ownership and participation among users. In the short term, we anticipate immediate benefits for commuters, such as improved time management, increased convenience, and reduced stress associated with public transit.
Looking ahead, the long-term impacts of our project will include societal and environmental advantages. By leveraging data-driven insights, regulatory bodies can formulate targeted interventions to bolster PT infrastructure in high-traffic areas, thereby mitigating climate change effects. Ultimately, our vision is to catalyze a change in thinking towards sustainable urban mobility as a contributory measure to achieving SDG 13 –taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impact.
