Could public transport be your act on behalf of the environment?

The City of Turku has set a goal of being carbon-neutral in 2029. Carbon neutrality means that carbon dioxide emissions are offset by an equal amount of CO2 extracted from the atmosphere. From 2029 onward Turku is to be climate positive, with a cooling effect on the atmosphere. Resource wisdom refers to sustainable use of natural resources. No waste and no emissions are to come from the city.

The transportation system is the second-most significant source of emissions. Transport is the source of about a quarter of all of Turku's emissions (in 2020). The City of Turku is developing solutions for sustainable transport to support the city's climate goals, make the city more pleasant and more competitive, while creating new models for business. A carbon-neutral transport system comprises several mutually reinforcing solutions of different types. These include, for example, the development of electric transport, digital solutions, car-sharing, the development of bicycle and pedestrian traffic, and the strategy of seeing transport as a service.

Föli transport getting electrified fast

Public transport is an inherently climate-friendly means of transport and an environmentally friendly choice. Electric buses will significantly reduce emissions from public transport.

As of 2021 Föli will have a total of 61 electric buses, which means that 1/3 of the kilometres will be driven electrically. Electric buses are being used on lines 1, 6, 7, 7A, 8, 13, 31, 32, 42, 92, and 93. From 2021 about 4,6 million kilometres will be driven at Föli by emission-free and quiet electric buses instead of diesel. Each year 5800 tons of CO2 emissions will be averted.

The first electric buses began operating in 2016 on line 1 – a route linking the harbour, the city centre, and the airport. The electric buses of line 1 have covered 2 million kilometres so far, and carbon dioxide emissions have gone down by 2,000 tons.

The European Union's Clean Vehicles Directive as well as the goal set by the City of Turku to be carbon neutral by 2029 are steering public transport powerfully in the direction of electric vehicles.

In 2022 there will be more electric buses on Föli routes.