TransLink named most sustainable transit system in Canada

An American non-profit organization has given Metro Vancouver’s regional transportation authority the top accolades for its high environmental performance.

TransLink’s operations have received the Platinum level status for sustainability from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), a move that places the authority at the top of Canada’s transportation organizations and one of four in North America.

The other organizations that have achieved a Platinum status are L.A. Metro, Seattle’s Sound Transit, and San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. Previously, TransLink had a Gold rating from the organization.

“We are proud to run a transportation system that contributes to the health of our communities,” said Cathy McLay, TransLink’s Acting CEO, in a statement. “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.”

According to the authority, since 2010 a total of 58 projects reduced waste by nine per cent, water use by 10 per cent, and greenhouse gas emissions by 17 per cent. As well, the introduction of new buses with improved emissions systems reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 17 per cent.

Last year, TransLink held an employee-driven campaign that raised $275,000 for United Way sponsored programs that assist local residents in need.