The Minnesota DOT (MnDOT) recently released a new report that aims to get its state on track to meet future goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in accordance with the 2007 Next Generation Energy Act.
The report, titled "Pathways to Decarbonizing Transportation in Minnesota," includes a number of action items that MnDOT will pursue, including the creation of a Sustainable Transportation Advisory Council, regional collaboration on electric vehicle (EV) corridors, and analyzing GHG emissions in transportation projects.
“Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is critical to MnDOT’s vision of maximizing the health of people, the environment, and our economy,” Commissioner Margaret Anderson Kelliher said in a news release. “I’m proud of the proactive efforts our team has taken to engage the public and other agencies in this discussion, and develop meaningful actions and recommendations that will help Minnesota achieve a low-carbon transportation future.”
The "Pathways" report makes additional state-level recommendations, including adoption of clean car standards that would require auto manufacturers to offer more models of EVs in Minnesota to improve consumer choice and help build the market for new and used EVs in the state.
According to MnDOT, several themes emerged from the various forms of public input they received, including a recognition of the climate crisis and a need for swift action and the need for more transportation options.
The report was funded by MnDOT and the Environmental Quality Board, and the project steering committee included the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and Minnesota Department of Commerce.
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SOURCE: Minnesota DOT
