As a non-driver, my reliance on public transport and cycling for transportation in Waterford is significant. However, I must express my concerns about the current state of bus services in our city, which are unreliable.
To ensure a just transition off fossil fuels, it is crucial to actively involve all community members, particularly those disproportionately affected by environmental issues. Waterford County Council should establish mechanisms for meaningful community engagement, promoting inclusivity and ensuring that the transition to a greener city benefits all residents, regardless of their socioeconomic background, religion, gender, sexuality, occupation, or race. Creating green employment for those that will be more affected by the changing climate. It is crucial to hold individuals accountable for their local emissions to ensure a fair and just transition towards sustainability. Vulnerable groups, including working-class individuals, poor migrants, and other marginalized communities, should not bear the burden of the mistakes made by large business owners/ individuals who choose to live unsustainable lifestyles.
Enhancing Public Transportation:
Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including electric buses, and integrating cycling and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, will help reduce carbon emissions from private vehicles. It is vital to prioritize equitable access to public transportation, ensuring that underserved communities have reliable and affordable transportation options.
Waterford's car culture poses a challenge in shifting towards sustainable transportation. The over-reliance on private vehicles has resulted in unnecessary emissions, noise pollution and air pollution. Fumes from diesel engines have been proven to be damaging to human health and can cause heart and lung disease and a range of other health effects. The inner city areas where a lot of our working class and migrant population live need to be protected form air pollution.
A transformative step would be to consider a future where the use of cars within the city limits is banned, with exceptions made for disabled individuals and local business deliveries. Implementing a free shuttle service from neighbouring suburbs to the city centre would reduce congestion and free up areas to create carbon sinks, such as green spaces that promote biodiversity. Encouraging a carless lifestyle can be achieved through incentives, such as higher taxes on SUVs, and reinvesting those funds into developing robust and accessible public transportation infrastructure.
Addressing the Needs of Climate Refugees:
As the impacts of climate change intensify, many individuals are being displaced from their homes due to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and environmental degradation. It is essential for Waterford County Council to implement policies and programs that prioritize the protection and well-being of climate refugees. Collaborating with international and national organizations, NGOs, and local community groups will aid in developing comprehensive strategies for supporting climate refugees. By providing accessible resources, community integration programs, and advocating for their rights, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate city.
Improving Cycling Infrastructure:
To encourage cycling as a viable transportation option, Waterford County Council should prioritize the development of consistent and safe cycling infrastructure. Commuter cycle lanes should be designed in consultation with cyclists and community members to ensure they are well-connected, separated from cars by green spaces, and consistently implemented. By conducting trials and seeking feedback from cyclists, planners can create cycle lanes that make sense for navigating the city, promoting safety and convenience for cyclists.
By integrating these recommendations into the broader action plan, we can work towards designing Waterford as a city for people not just for cars. Through community engagement, robust public transportation, city planning, addressing the needs of climate refugees, and improving cycling infrastructure we can pave the way for a greener and more equitable future.
Audit current cycle infrastructure, create a shuttle bus system, run community focused campaigns that aim to reduce car centric thinking.
Designing cities for people, not cars, is imperative. Car-centric city planning perpetuates classism and is unrealistic given the current cost of living crisis. A shift towards people-centric urban development is essential for creating inclusive, sustainable, and livable environments.