TransLink achieves platinum status for sustainability
Written by Carolina Worrell, Senior EditorTransLink is the first Canadian transportation organization to achieve platinum level status for sustainability from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). This move from gold to platinum places TransLink at the top of Canada’s transportation organizations and one of four in North America, the agency says.
“We are proud to run a transportation system that contributes to the health of our communities,” said Cathy McLay, TransLink’s Acting CEO. “Our operations affect the residents of this region, and we work hard each day to reduce our impact on our natural environment and contribute to the communities we serve. We are thrilled to be recognized for these efforts.”
APTA reviewed TransLink’s comprehensive program to improve the management of energy, air pollutants, and water, waste and greenhouse gas emissions. Many of the initiatives that improved TransLink’s sustainability record were at Coast Mountain Bus Company. Since 2010, 58 separate projects reduced waste by 9%, water use by 1%, and greenhouse gas emissions by 17% in its facilities. The bus fleet alone has had a 17 % reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. CMBC also reduced energy consumption by more than 7%.
“Congratulations to TransLink for reaching Platinum Level! Sustainability makes good business sense and good environmental sense,” said APTA President and CEO Michael Melaniphy. “TransLink is a model of sustainability excellence and its leadership in implementing sustainable practices makes Metro Vancouver communities better, greener places to live.”
TransLink’s commitment to social well-being and long-time support of United Way also helped TransLink achieve the platinum level status. In 2014, its employee-driven campaign raised $275,000 for United Way sponsored programs to help those in need across Metro Vancouver.
TransLink is now one of four North American transit organizations to have achieved platinum status, joining LA Metro, Sound Transit and San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
