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1. URL (0.5pt)
2. Title (0.5pt)
3. Author (0.5pt)
4. Date (0.5pt)
5. KEY CONTENT (3 pts. as per category)
- Describe briefly the content and how it is connected to the research topic.
- The information should have a Davao or Mindanao context. If none, justify its relevance to the research topic.
6. Caption part of each post, write the name of the learner in closed parentheses.
7. Number and label the items according to the list.
DEADLINE: February 10, 2023

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URL:
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS8fnUTcW/
TITLE: Let’s solve #traffic in the #Philippines!
AUTHOR: Dr. Engr. Solving Traffic 🇵🇭
DATE PUBLISHED: 2022-06-28
KEY CONTENT: Dr. Engr. is known in tiktok to promote sustainability mobility solutions.

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URL: https://www.rappler.com/science/127075-philippines-sustainable-transportation-strategy/
TITLE: Creating sustainable transport systems: PH’s progress so far
AUTHOR: Rappler
DATE: March 28, 2016
KEY CONTENT: Long-term sustainability would require transforming the way we build our cities and integrating cycling, as well as walking, into our transport planning processes.

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MANILA, Philippines - It only takes a glance at Metro Manila's major thoroughfare to know how bad traffic is in the Philippines' national capital region.

Rush hour or not, EDSA seems perpetually stuck in a state of congestion. Cars crawl along the 23.9-km highway and easily spend at least an hour in non-moving traffic. Commuters spill out onto the streets, fighting each other for standing-room space in crowded buses. Overhead, one of the metro's train lines chug along dilapidated rails, carrying twice its maximum capacity. It's considered a good day for commuters if the train doesn't suffer yet another technical glitch.

This is what Metro Manila looks like today - home to a daytime population of 15 million, a car-centric urban environment where motorized vehicles dominate the roads, and public transport system that is neither efficient nor organized. The worsening traffic problem is troubling for an economy hailed as one of the fastest growing in the Asian region, and especially considering that the Philippines, in 2010, was part of the regional bloc that committed to establish a sustainable, energy efficient, and environmentally-friendly transport system.

The Philippines, the second most populous country in Southeast Asia, faces a serious transportation problem. Nearly 50% of its 88 million people live in urban areas, creating a challenge for policymakers to ensure citizens' quality of life.

In Metro Manila alone, travel by public transport accounts for 69% of the total number of trips taken every day, with buses and jeeps accounting for 71% of these trips, according to a study by the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

But limited road network and an increasing number of private vehicles have exacerbated road congestion. It is also contributing to bigger carbon dioxide emissions. In the Philippines, the transport sector accounts for 36.1% of the total carbon dioxide emissions from fuel combustion.

In 2010, member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) adopted a region-wide strategic transport plan that aims to arrest the negative effects of the increase of motorized vehicles: the ASEAN Strategic Transport Action Plan (ASTP) 2011-2015, also known as the Brunei Action Plan.

The ASTP aims to establish an integrated and sustainable transport network that can help promote trade and tourism within the region. It also recognized the need to create safe, efficient, and environmentally-friendly transport corridors. With transportation accounting for more than 20% of the world's carbon dioxide emissions, the ASTP wanted ASEAN member states to share knowledge on sustainable transport projects and to pilot-test them in their own countries.

One of the key thrusts of the ASTP is promoting public transportation. With the exception of Singapore, many major ASEAN cities are struggling to improve public transport and to increase the number of citizens who take mass transit.

The ASTP's recommendation: for ASEAN countries to study the feasibility of setting up a bus rapid transit (BRT) system, which it considered to be "cheaper, faster to construct, more profitable to operate, and economical to commuters" compared to rail-based systems.

The ASTP also highlighted the need to promote alternative mobility by providing sidewalks and bike lanes to encourage walking and cycling for short distance travels.
The Philippines' national strategy
In recent years, the Philippines' Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has been laying out plans to improve public transportation networks, promote alternative mobility options, and cleaner transport through alternative fuels and green vehicles.

In 2011, a national environmentally sustainable transport (EST) strategy was released to guide the development and implementation of a master plan for the country's transportation system.

This EST strategy envisions an integrated, efficient, and effective transport system that moves more people through low-emission transport modes and reducing the emission of greenhouse gases.

Under the national EST strategy, the government should shift to non-motorized forms of transport (such as walking and biking) and an improved public transportation system (such as BRT, and an expanded urban rail system).

It also aims to improve existing transportation modes, such as setting up intelligent transport systems, improving vehicle inspection and maintenance, and shifting to cleaner fuels.

How far has the Philippines gone in achieving the aims of the national EST strategy?
Improving buses and BRT share
With transport-related emissions expected to increase by 57% worldwide between 2005 to 2030, and as the Asian region undergoes rapid urbanization, the Philippines recognizes that "any serious reform" in the transport sector will have to include major changes in current existing systems.

Policymakers are shifting to the idea that the goal is to move more people instead of moving more cars. One cause of traffic congestion is the oversupply of private vehicles crowding limited road space.

The DOTC believes that one solution to address this is to take private cars off the roads and get car owners to take mass transit instead. The rationale: private cars carry only around 3 or 4 passengers, as opposed to buses which take up more road space yet carry 60 or more passengers.

But to entice car owners to take the bus, the DOTC has to convince them that bus travel is cheaper, convenient, and faster than using private cars. In recent months, the department has introduced the express bus and the point-to-point bus systems.

Unlike ordinary city buses, these buses make limited or no stops at all between origin and destination, shaving off an estimated 30 minutes of travel time. The fares may be more expensive than that of regular city buses, but, the DOTC reasons, it's still cheaper compared to paying for gas and parking.

Why overhaul the bus system? It's a low-cost solution that makes use of what Metro Manila already has in abundance. It's a strategy adopted from South Korea's successful bus reform program, a project that involved transport planning expert Gyeng Chul Kim, now also an adviser for the DOTC.

Overhauling the bus system also involves the challenge of managing supply and demand: matching the number of buses deployed on the road with the number of passengers needing them. To achieve this, a public transport information management center will be set up within the year to track buses using GPS.

The DOTC is going a step further and following a specific recommendation of the ASTP: setting up the BRT system. With funding help from the World Bank, the country's first-ever BRT project is expected to be operational in Cebu City by 2018. The project, approved in 2014, is expected to answer the transportation needs of the 2.5 million people living in Metro Cebu.

Metro Manila is also set to have its own BRT systems, with one line running along the length of EDSA, and a 12.3-kilometer line running from Manila to Quezon Avenue.
Promoting alternative mobility
Transport experts and urban planners have lamented how less than 2% of Filipinos own cars - and yet, most of the roads are dedicated to vehicles.

Even the design of roads confirm how car-centric Metro Manila is. Sidewalks are very narrow or non-existent, and pedestrians frequently spill out onto the road. Cyclists weave in and out of traffic, and most motorists don't acknowledge the presence of bike lanes - if they are present at all.

The challenge for government officials is to promote a culture of cycling and walking, and one way that other countries have tackled this problem is by investing in the appropriate infrastructure. Build it and they will come: by providing ample sidewalks, and bike lanes, the public will be encouraged to walk or cycle instead of taking a car ride, especially for distances less than 2 kilometers.

Several cities in Metro Manila have adopted this tactic as their way to contribute to the country's green initiatives. Transport experts, for instance, have lauded Makati's network of pedestrian walkways, making it easy to go around the busy central business district by walking.

Marikina City is best known as a cyclist-friendly haven, notable for its extensive 52-kilometer bikeway network, which was launched in 2001 through a a $1.3-million grant from the World Bank's Global Environment Facility.

Pasig City also has its carless Sundays, turning a stretch of road in the Ortigas business district into a bike-friendly, pedestrian-friendly zone. The city government has also partnered with Clean Air Asia and the Asian Development Bank to host a bicycle-sharing network in the city.

Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority - the metro body tasked to manage traffic in the capital region - has also set up bike lanes along EDSA and launched its own bike-sharing programs.

Outside of Metro Manila, the city of Vigan in Ilocos Region and Iloilo in Western Visayas have also made pedestrian-friendly spaces part of the city landscape.

The Spanish-influenced Vigan, for instance, is working to preserve its rich heritage and culture by keeping the historic cobblestone street Calle Crisologo free of motorized vehicles.

In Iloilo City, its 1.2-kilometer riverside Esplanade - originally intended to be yet another road - is now a public park that provides breathing space for locals, and also serves as a pedestrian link between two bridges.

To encourage a mindset of walking and cycling for Filipinos, several environment advocates have pushed for more road-sharing activities. The experiments have been piloted in 2011 in Cebu City, where half of the roads were set aside for the exclusive use of pedestrians and cyclists.

While these were not a resounding success - several motorists complained of the heavy traffic triggered by road closures - advocates believe that refining the experiments and keeping up the momentum will be key to eventually creating more livable cities.
Moves in the legislature
One of the latest moves to further strengthen the national EST framework is a proposed measure filed in Congress in 2015. House Bill 6059, or the Sustainable Transportation Act of 2013, seeks to promote efficient and environmentally-friendly modes of transportation and the use of non-motorized vehicles.

The bill, filed in August 2015 by Catanduanes Representative Cesar Sarmiento, envisions a Philippine transport system with adequate walkways and bike paths, modern vehicles that use cleaner fuels, an efficient and environmentally-friendly mass transit system, travel demand management programs, and a transportation plan tied up with land use plans.

More than just a means to help alleviate traffic, the bill recognizes that this kind of transportation system would help save the environment and restore the dignity of the Filipino commuter.

The bill seeks to mandate government agencies to craft sustainable transport action plans, policies to establish emission control standards, infrastructure to encourage walking and biking, and more efficient mass transit systems.

While the DOTC is designated as the lead implementing agency, it is expected to coordinate with other agencies and local government units in the implementation.

This is crucial because the DOTC alone cannot undertake an overhaul of the transportation system. It can, for instance, set guidelines for the creation of pedestrian lanes and bike lanes, but it is the role of LGUs to drill down to the specifics - providing the actual road infrastructure, making sure that these lanes are kept for the exclusive use of pedestrians and cyclists, and mandating business owners to put up bicycle parking spaces.

In promoting cleaner fuels and assessing health impact, the DOTC should coordinate with the health department, environment department, and energy department.

It is also expected to consult other stakeholders, such as civil society groups and the business sector, in studying the feasibility of travel demand management programs such as carpooling, telecommuting, and congestion pricing.

The bill also zeroes in on the role played by local government units. Aside from their involvement in the implementation, LGUs are required to submit an integrated land use and transportation plan that will include ways to avoid unnecessary travel.

The proposed measure recognizes the crucial link between a transportation plan and land use planning. Emphasis is placed on transit-oriented development, or mixed-use residential and commercial areas, that are easily accessible to public transportation system and alternative mobility options.

While it has promising points, the bill remains pending with the House committee on transportation as of September 2015. A technical working group has been created by the House committee on transportation to consolidate 5 bills related to the issue.
More programs needed
While the Philippines' focus on improving public transportation is a step in the right direction, much more needs to be done in the area of encouraging alternate mobility options and other forms of non-motorized transportation (NMT).

A 2009 study by academics Brian Gozun and Marie Danielle Guillen noted that trips less than 2 kilometers could be covered by walking or cycling, but the lack of "hard" and "soft" infrastructure - bike lanes, for instance, and policies that support these modes of transport - can affect the public's willingness to walk or cycle.

For Alvin Mejia, transport program manager of Clean Air Asia, providing the right support can entice citizens to walk or bike more.

"I think that the general stigma against cycling in society is an issue of the design of our cities, as well as our popular media giving a premium to having faster and bigger vehicles," he said.

"This has degraded cycling into an inferior mode of transport which should not be the case. Cyclists, as well as pedestrians, should be entitled to the same privilege as the, other motorized road-users," he added.

According to Gozun and Guillen, an integrated NMT policy should consider information campaigns to promote alternative mobility, the development of walkways, bike racks, and bike rental programs, and walk-friendly designs in land use plans.

Another Filipino form of NMT - the pedicab - can also be more thoroughly studied to determine how it can be effectively integrated in existing road designs that favor motor vehicles. While some see it as a detriment and even a contributor to traffic, it can work in specific areas where traffic volume is not too high.

The Philippines can also look into expanding bike-sharing schemes as a way to introduce cycling and make it a more acceptable concept for the everyday Filipino.

"Bike-sharing schemes can ultimately be acceptable once people realize that they can fill certain voids in the transport system here in Metro Manila. For such schemes to be successful, the people need to see that such schemes are useful, safe, save money, and save time," Mejia said.

To speed up the wider adoption of such a scheme, Mejia suggested setting up a bike-sharing network with access to critical origin and destination points and integration with other modes of transport.

The network should also be equipped with technological systems that can monitor users' activities and provide real-time information on the availability of bikes and docks. These will provide baseline data to further improve the system, he said.

"Sustainable transportation projects to ease traffic congestion and reduce emissions are now high on the public agenda, and putting dedicated bike lanes and developing bike-sharing schemes across cities should complement the existing and planned transport services," Mejia said.

He added, "Long-term sustainability would require transforming the way we build our cities and integrating cycling, as well as walking, into our transport planning processes." - Rappler.com
The research for this report was supported by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom.

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Creating sustainable transport systems: PH's progress so far

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MANILA, Philippines - It only takes a glance at Metro Manila's major thoroughfare to know how bad traffic is in the Philippines' national capital region. Rush hour or not, EDSA seems perpetually stuck in a state of congestion. Cars crawl along the 23.9-km highway and easily spend at least an hour in non-moving traffic.

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URL: https://mb.com.ph/2022/12/05/mindanao-needs-a-transport-masterplan/
AUTHOR: John Tria
DATE: December 5, 2022
KEY CONTENT:  The Manila Bulletin talks about the progress of transportation in Mindanao throughout the years with the help of the build build build program. Talks about how it is safe and easier to travel around the province.

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URL: https://www.eco-business.com/press-releases/adb-launches-bicycle-sharing-schemes-in-three-asian-cities/
TITLE: ADB launches bicycle-sharing schemes in three Asian cities
AUTHOR: Eco-Business
DATE PUBLISHED: Nov. 7, 2012
KEY CONTENT: ADB and the Government of Japan launched a $2m bicycle-sharing scheme in three cities, including Davao in the Philippines and Vientiane in Lao People's Democratic Republic, to improve urban transport conditions and reduce air pollution and pedestrian accidents. The project is funded by the Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction and administered by ADB.

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ADB launches bicycle-sharing schemes in three Asian cities | Press Releases | Asia | Sustainable Business

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The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Japan today formally launched a bicycle-sharing scheme which will be tested in three cities for possible replication across developing Asia and the Pacific.

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1I9RzmjRj3E
TITLE: Transforming Transportation 2021 Highlights
AUTHOR: WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities
DATE: Feb 25, 2021
KEY CONTENT: Improving transport for a better environment so that everyone can benefit like using solar or electrical powered cars instead of using gas cars and reducing climate change for the betterment of our planet.

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URL: Transforming Transportation 2022: Climate-Centered
Mobility for a Sustainable Recovery | Highlights - YouTube
TITLE: Transforming Transportation 2022: Climate-Centered Mobility for a Sustainable Recovery | Highlights
AUTHOR: World Bank
KEY INFO: Transforming Transportation 2022 explored how we can reimagine transport to help address climate change and support a lasting, sustainable recovery.

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Transforming Transportation 2022: Climate-Centered Mobility for a Sustainable Recovery | Highlights

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URL: https://youtu.be/2EZ50wxosDg
TITLE: The Power of Sustainability
AUTHOR: Henkel
DATE: December 13, 2018
KEY INFO: Henkel's sustainability strategy is inspired by their purpose: Pioneers at heart for the good of generations.  With their pioneering spirit, knowledge, products and technologies, they want to enrich and improve the lives of billions of people every day – and shape a viable future for the next generations. Sustainability is thus a central element in their vision of the future. They want to actively drive the transformation to a sustainable economy and society, help protect and regenerate nature, contribute to strong communities and strengthen the trust of their stakeholders.

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URL:
https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsustainabledevelopment.un.org%2Fcontent%2Fdocuments%2F2375Mobilizing%2520Sustainable%2520Transport.pdf&psig=AOvVaw0zDatZ_iZXaWzyJiISv_RU&ust=1676197204899000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CBAQjRxqFwoTCKiDvK6fjf0CFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD
TITLE: Mobilizing Sustainable Transport for Development
AUTHOR: The United Nations
DATE: October 28, 2016
KEY INFO: In 2015, the world’s community came together to determine what kind of future we would leave to the next generation. The world set bold, transformative goals in sustainable development, financing for development and climate change, proclaiming in all of these contexts that ‘business as usual’ is no longer a viable option.

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URL: https://environbuzz.com/sustainable-transportation-the-way-to-go/
TITLE: SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION – THE WAY TO GO!
AUTHOR: Alicia Advincula
DATE: November 25, 2022
KEY INFO: The article discusses the importance of sustainable transportation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It explores different modes of transportation including walking, cycling, electric cars, and public transportation. Sustainable transportation projects, such as zero-emission ferries and revamping public transportation systems, are highlighted as ways to make transportation more efficient and environmentally friendly

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Transportation is an industry that still relies heavily on fossil fuels, and is therefore a large emitter of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The fossil fuels we take from the environment, such as crude oil, are turned into gasoline or diesel which we use in our vehicles. These emit the GHG emissions which are absorbed by our atmosphere. On the other hand, when we talk about sustainable transport we are looking at transportation that minimizes GHG emissions, is energy efficient, and affordable. Net Zero transport is when there are no GHG emissions, or the emissions are offset for example, by tree planting.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, stay at home mandates helped decrease the GHG emissions from the transportation sector, as people were forced to stay at home. However, as of 2021 these GHG emissions started increasing rapidly as pandemic restrictions were lifted. Estimations of GHG emissions for the transportation sector suggest that we are currently back to pre-pandemic levels.

Sustainable Modes of Transportation

Different modes of transport have different factors we need to consider when comparing how sustainable they are.

Walking and Cycling

The most sustainable forms of transport are walking and cycling as they do not emit any greenhouse gas emissions during their use. Active transport like these have benefits other than environmental, as they are beneficial to humans by keeping us moving, active and healthy. While this may be an important solution for climate change and health issues, many cities are unfortunately not prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists. Little investment is often made to improve infrastructure and adopt strategies to encourage walking and cycling and protect pedestrians and cyclists from motor vehicles. In order to boost sustainable transport, it is vital to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists are not left out of transportation budgets and infrastructure projects. If we get more people walking and cycling, this would obviously reduce traffic as well as parking congestion. With less congestion, public transit and its travel times would be more reliable. For example, in Manila (the capital of the Philippines) it is estimated that over $60 million of annual GDP is lost due to congestion, which also results in massive amounts of greenhouse gas pollution.

Electric Cars

Another form of sustainable transportation are electric cars, which over the years have become more popular. In 2012 about 120,000 cars were sold globally, in 2021 about 120,000 are estimated to be sold in one week. Electric cars rely on electricity, as a result they are more sustainable than traditional cars that rely on fossil fuels. However a number of factors still need to be addressed to further improve the sustainability of electric vehicles. Some of these factors include considering the amount of GHGs emitted in the manufacturing process, the source of the electricity used for charging these vehicles and whether it is a "clean" electric grid, or if there is a large amount of coal burned to produce this electricity.

Another factor we need to consider is the afterlife of these vehicles, especially the batteries. Many batteries, not just those used in electric vehicles, contain raw materials such as lithium and cobalt which have negative environmental impacts and also human health concerns. These issues come from the mining and smelting of these materials which result in air pollution; as well as the large amounts of groundwater used in their production and manufacturing. Also, at the end-of-life these batteries are usually just thrown away, whereas the metals and other materials found in them could be recovered and reused, or it could be recycled. Recycling batteries however can also use large amounts of water and/or emit air pollution, so what are our other options? Possibly a better option is finding them a second life in storage or another application, such as backup storage for solar power.

Public Transportation

Even though public transportation also runs on fossil fuels, they are more sustainable than private transportation means. "The American Public Transit Association suggests that the use of public transit saves an estimated 1.4 billion gallons of gas and 14 million tons of carbon dioxide annually". In addition, they reduce congestion, idling, and noise.

The electrification of public transportation will contribute even further in reducing emissions, lowering noise levels and improving air quality.

Another factor to consider is remodeling infrastructure to accommodate the power needed for the transportation sector, and also to make it more efficient. For example, by including bus only lanes. By rebuilding infrastructure there is the opportunity to make it easier to use, as well as ensure reliability and meeting expected travel times.

Sustainable Transportation Projects

Changes need to be made in order to make transport more sustainable and efficient, and some places are already making these changes.

In New York the Cruise Lines have collaborated with the Green City Ferries in order to create a zero-emissions ferry to go in the New York Harbor. This ferry is meant to have zero emissions while offering a fast moving, quiet, low-vibration and fast charging vessel. It is also meant to be energy efficient, have a fast manufacturing turnaround, and reduced maintenance and operating costs.

In 2020 Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, revamped their public transportation system and won the Sustainable Transport Award for its efforts, becoming the first Southeast Asian city to receive this award. "Transjakarta" features dedicated bus lanes, off-board fare collection, fast and frequent operations, and connections to smaller vehicles that expand further into the region and residential areas.

By switching to more sustainable and low emission transport, we will not only be saving on the cost of fuel and the vehicle, but also be reducing carbon emissions, creating new green jobs, improving accessibility to reliable transportation options, and increasing our energy security and independence.

References

Energy Education. (2022). Transportation. https://energyeducation.ca/encyclopedia/Transportation

International Energy Agency. (2022). Transport: Improving the sustainability of passenger and freight transport. https://www.iea.org/topics/transport

Mead, L. (2021, May 24). The Road to Sustainable Transport. International Institute for Sustainable Development. https://www.iisd.org/articles/deep-dive/road-sustainable-transport

Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy. (2022). Sustainable Transportation. https://www.energy.gov/eere/sustainable-transportation

Ohlund, H., El-Samra, S., Adriazola-Steil, A., Zayas, G., & Targa, F. (2021, December 3). Invest in Walking and Cycling for Sustainable, Safe Cities. Here's How. World Resources Institute. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwhhL847MSM&t=1s

Tabuchi, H., & Plumber, B. (2021, March 2). How Green are Electric Vehicles?. New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/02/climate/electric-vehicles-environment.html

WorkBoat. (2022, November 3). Spring launch scheduled for first zero-emissions passenger ferry in NYC. https://www.workboat.com/shipbuilding/new-york-cruise-lines-green-city-ferries-to-launch-first-zero-emissions-passenger-ferry-in-nyc

World Economic Forum. (2022). Here are five policies to make transport more sustainable in cities. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/03/five-transit-policies-cities-should-prioritize-to-become-more-sustainable/

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Sustainable Transportation - The Way To Go! | EnvironBuzz™ Mag

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Transportation is an industry that still relies heavily on fossil fuels, and is therefore a large emitter of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The fossil fuels we take from the environment, such as crude oil, are turned into gasoline or diesel which we use in our vehicles.

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URL: https://www.solarcarphilippines.com/
TITLE: Solar Car Philippines
AUTHOR: Solar Car
DATE: March 17, 2022
KEY INFO: Filipino entrepreneur, Ar-Jay Marfa, saw this opportunity to own a solar car to limit the operational costs in his business. He approached the creator of this ingenious solar car from Eric Sebastian Pangyarihan and purchased the vehicle. With a few minor modifications, he converted this solar car as his delivery vehicle for his rice distribution business. He used to own a fuel-driven vehicle for his distribution business, but this put a considerable dent in his revenues because of the ever-increasing oil prices.

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URL: Sustainability on the Move: Transportation Innovation | Blog | Sustainable Business Network and Consultancy | BSR
TITLE: Sustainability on the Move: Transportation Innovation
AUTHOR: John Hodges
DATE: August 31, 2017
KEY INFO: One of the main causes of emissions, noise pollution, and climate change is transportation. Sustainable transportation has turned into one of the region's top priorities as its economies continue to expand. With transportation infrastructure in particular—whether for air, rail, road, or sea—about to be radically transformed through technological advances, there is a tremendous opportunity for sustainability.

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In a recent blog post, I described how the design phase often determines the biggest sustainability impacts of infrastructure projects. With transportation infrastructure in particular-whether for air, rail, road, or sea-about to be radically transformed through technological advances, I foresee tremendous opportunity for sustainability.

If you think about it, the basic experience of transportation infrastructure has remained the same for the past 50 years. While other industries have undergone revolutionary technological advancements, cars, planes, and trains (at least in the U.S.) move at roughly the same speeds today as they did 50 years ago. There have been advances in safety and fuel efficiency: for example, planes now have about twice the fuel efficiency they had in the 1960s. But a passenger's experience has not changed much in recent history, with only a few visible technological improvements and exceptions.

Many people believe the most significant impending infrastructure shift is to a system of electric and autonomous vehicles. France, India, and the United Kingdom are just some countries which have come out with plans to eliminate gasoline and diesel vehicles in the coming decades. Many major transport fleet owners-such as UPS, PepsiCo, and Walmart-have agreed to the Sustainable Fuel Buyers' Principles and started making efforts to move to vehicle electrification.

Autonomous vehicles are expected to bring tremendous safety benefits by eliminating the approximately 30,000 annual traffic deaths in the U.S. alone. They are also anticipated to have significant environmental impact, with as many as 80 percent fewer cars needed in urban areas and greater fuel efficiency achieved. Given that transportation currently accounts for about 27 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. and a very large portion of air pollutants and petrochemical smog, the environmental benefits of a shift to autonomous vehicles could be planet-changing.

This autonomous future will not be limited to automobiles. Two large Norwegian companies are preparing to launch the world's first autonomous container ship, which is also a zero-emissions, electric-powered vessel, in the next few years. These advancements could make a new container ship as much as 90 percent less expensive to operate. And with about 40 percent of all maritime container traffic being used to transport coal and oil, there could be a significant reduction in environmental impact through reductions in the demand for these commodities, too.

While maritime transport today only accounts for about 2 percent of global greenhouse emissions, it is one of the fastest growing areas of emissions and is expected to double its share by 2050. BSR's Clean Cargo Working Group, which now represents 87 percent of ocean container shipping by volume, was established with several leading carriers and shippers more than a decade ago to measure, evaluate, and report environmental performance. In the group's new report, published today, it shares that from 2015 to 2016 alone, CCWG members have reduced average CO2 emissions per container per kilometer for global ocean transportation routes by 2.4 percent.

Of course, there are also opportunities for more radical infrastructure transformation, some of which could be categorized as completely new modes of transportation. Hyperloop rail systems are one such emerging innovation with potentially significant sustainability benefits. A study funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that this could be approximately six times more energy efficient than air travel on short routes and completely powered by solar energy. Not to mention that it is multiple times faster than current high-speed rail, which can provide economic and social benefits for employers and commuters.

Uncertainty about the social impact of these systematic shifts remains. For example, an estimated 3 percent of the U.S. population works as drivers, an occupation that may likely be in low demand in the near future. Furthermore, while there will be a trend toward more public-private partnerships to bring these transportation innovations to life, it will be important for governments and the private sector to work together to ensure low-income inclusion and access to transportation.

And while we are seeing exciting developments for transportation by land and sea, more investment and innovation will be needed for the future of long-haul air travel. One area of focus is more efficient supersonic, high-altitude planes. A main concern associated with supersonic travel is its high fuel consumption, and while it is true that the Concorde used significantly more fuel per passenger mile in the 20th century than today's planes, there are many supersonic designs under development that are more fuel efficient.

Other ideas for aviation, like circular runways, have potential sustainability benefits like reducing congestion and plane taxi times. Regardless of which technologies are ultimately adopted at scale, it is a good sign that some infrastructure operators, such as Heathrow Airport, are now developing bold and forward-looking sustainability strategies.

At BSR's 25th anniversary Conference later this year, we will explore these exciting transformations and how some companies are leading the sustainable transportation revolution. Join me in Huntington Beach on October 25 for a panel on the Transportation of Tomorrow.

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Sustainability on the Move: Transportation Innovation | Blog | Sustainable Business Network and Consultancy | BSR

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In a recent blog post, I described how the design phase often determines the biggest sustainability impacts of infrastructure projects. With transportation infrastructure in particular-whether for air, rail, road, or sea-about to be radically transformed through technological advances, I foresee tremendous opportunity for sustainability.

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14. Non-Government Organization or Academic Institution Article

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14. Non-Government Organization or Academic Institution Article

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URL: https://www.ateneo.edu/analysis-opinion/2022/07/01/urgent-call-sustainable-mobility-our-cities
TITLE: The Urgent Call for Sustainable Mobility in Our Cities
AUTHOR: Ateneo De Manila
DATE: July 01 2022
KEY INFO: Building more highways is not the solution to traffic congestion and instead, a shift towards sustainable mobility is necessary. Sustainable mobility focuses on reducing carbon emissions, promoting public transportation, and providing safer spaces for alternative modes of transportation.

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The Urgent Call for Sustainable Mobility in Our Cities

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In late 2021, the Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) project aroused controversy since it was proposed by San Miguel Corporation (SMC). At the heart of the issue is the desire to solve the traffic crisis that has long burdened everyday Filipino travelers.

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URL: What is an Environmentally Sustainable and Healthy Urban Transport (ESHUT) Initiative? | Department of Health website (doh.gov.ph)
TITLE: WHAT IS AN ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE AND HEALTHY URBAN TRANSPORT (ESHUT) INITIATIVE?
AUTHOR: DOH
DATE: 2020
KEY INFO: Any initiative that pertains to the development or enhancement of existing projects to improve the policy, design and practice of an urban transport system (e.g., decreasing air and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emission from motor vehicles, pedestrian footpaths, bicycle lane) and lead to improvement of health and safety of urban population.

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Jump to navigation

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What is an Environmentally Sustainable and Healthy Urban Transport (ESHUT) Initiative?

Name of Office: BUREAU OF LOCAL HEALTH DEVELOPMENT (BLHD)

Any initiative that pertains to the development or enhancement of existing projects to improve the policy, design and practice of an urban transport system (e.g., decreasing air and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emission from motor vehicles, pedestrian footpaths, bicycle lane) and lead to improvement of health and safety of urban population.

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What is an Environmentally Sustainable and Healthy Urban Transport (ESHUT) Initiative? | Department of Health website

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Jump to navigation ?php print render($page['highlighted']); ?> What is an Environmentally Sustainable and Healthy Urban Transport (ESHUT) Initiative? Name of Office: BUREAU OF LOCAL HEALTH DEVELOPMENT (BLHD) Any initiative that pertains to the development or enhancement of existing projects to improve the policy, design and practice of an urban transport system (e.g., decreasing air and noise pollution and greenhouse gas emission from motor vehicles, pedestrian footpaths, bicycle lane) and lead to improvement of health and safety of urban population.

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URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=314QCdI55g4
TITLE: Sustainable Transport: Getting Us Out of Traffic
AUTHOR: Oliver Manias
DATE: Jul 6, 2021
KEY INFO: Oliver Manias discusses how having more care might cause roads to be more congested than they should be, and he provides us with solutions for sustainable transportation, both public and active. It minimizes dependency on fossil fuels, making it at least twice as efficient as private automobiles; the fewer cars on the road, the less congestion and carbon emissions.

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Sustainable Transport: Getting Us Out of Traffic | Oliver Manias | TEDxHillbrookAnglicanSchool

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URL: https://www.adb.org/news/infographics/climate-change-and-transport
TITLE: Climate Change and Transport

AUTHOR: Asian Development Bank
DATE: September 1, 2015
KEY INFO: Asia and the Pacific's motorized transport emissions have become a significant contributor to the global problem of greenhouse gas emissions that lead to climate change.

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URL:
Mega Future Trains | Megastructures | Free Documentary - Bing video
TITLE: Mega Future Trains
AUTHOR: Free Documentary
DATE: December 25, 2020
KEY INFO: A futuristic magnetic levitation train makes the 30 km journey from the Pudong International Airport to the Longyang Road Station in Shanghai’s new financial center into an eight-minute joyride. As a transportation system it is fast, safe and energy efficient, but the Shanghai line remains the only magnetic levitation train in commercial operation despite decades of research and countless proposals.

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documentary about changing to transportation - Bing video

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URL: https://changing-transport.org/seminar_cities_for_us/
TITLE: Cities for Us – Towards efficient, dignified, and sustainable urban mobility
AUTHOR: Patricia Mariano
DATE: March 3, 2022
KEY INFO: On 3rd March 2022, 3:00pm – 4:30pm, the German development cooperation (GIZ), supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI), and together with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), will present how our urban mobility can serve us better.

The webinar will include an overview of our urban transport system, presentations on the National Transport Policy and the Philippine Urban Mobility Programme (which proposes measures to build sustainable urban transport systems), and updates on the strides we have made for active transport modes during this pandemic.

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When: 03 March 2022, 3:00pm - 4:30pm PST
Where: MS Teams

Imagine living in a city where there are more pedestrians and cyclists than cars. A city that allows you and your friends to have easier and safer access to school, the park, or the mall. Imagine a city that puts you, your future, and protecting the environment at the core of its policies.

Are you interested to know how we can improve urban mobility to achieve #CitiesForUs?

On 3 rd March 2022, 3:00pm - 4:30pm, the German development cooperation (GIZ), supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI), and together with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), will present how our urban mobility can serve us better.

The webinar will include an overview of our urban transport system, presentations on the National Transport Policy and the Philippine Urban Mobility Programme (which proposes measures to build sustainable urban transport systems), and updates on the strides we have made for active transport modes during this pandemic.

We invite you to have a discussion with us about the transforming our cities, sustainably. If you would like to read more about our work and Philippine Urban Mobility Programme (PUMP) please click here.

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Cities for Us - Towards efficient, dignified, and sustainable urban mobility - Changing Transport

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When: 03 March 2022, 3:00pm - 4:30pm PSTWhere: MS Teams Imagine living in a city where there are more pedestrians and cyclists than cars. A city that allows you and your friends to have easier and safer access to school, the park, or the mall.

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URL: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781315644486/introduction-sustainable-transportation-preston-schiller-jeffrey-kenworthy
TITLE: An Introduction to Sustainable Transportation
AUTHOR: Jeffrey R. Kenworthy
DATE: 2010
KEY INFO: An Introduction to Sustainable Transportation illustrates a new planning paradigm for sustainable transportation through case studies from around the world

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URL: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=78423
TITLE: Sustainability of E-Trike as Alternative Mode of Public Transportation System: The Case of Cabanatuan City, Philippines
AUTHOR: Felipe E. Balaria, Marilou P. Pascual, Mercedes D. Santos, Arjay F. Ortiz, Arneil G. Gabriel, Teodora Luz Soto Mangahas
DATE: September 2017
KEY INFO: A study to analyze the potential adoption of E-trikes (electric tricycles) as a mode of public transport in the City of Cabanatuan which is an important step in transportation sustainability as it can translate to other places of the Philippines.

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1. Introduction

The use of tricycle has become the mode of transportation in most developing cities of the world [1] . Tricycle (motorized and non-motorized) is the prime mode of intra-city transportation [2] though considered as informal sector, its impact on transportation and management is beyond question [3] . In China, working tricycles continue to provide social and economic needs despite the threat of being phased out due to the neoliberal mobility developing within the city [4] . In India, the same mode of transportation is used by common people which posed a major challenge to the growing population on how the government would maintain good air quality [5] . In Nigeria, the use of motorized tricycle is encouraged within the city limits to decongest the traffic [6] . In Metro Manila, Philippines, it is the prevailing mode of transportation using secondary streets occupying the front seat in local policy making in local governance and urban development [7] . In Cabanatuan City Philippines, this mode of transportation comprises more than 50% of conveyances in view of the limited routes that jeepneys could take [8] .

In the Philippines, electric tricycle or E-trike is the same as tricycle in terms of configuration or almost as similar to that of the traditional rickshaw which is three-wheeled, and can ferry several passengers and dependent on the body design and capacity of the motor engine. E-trike is run by electricity while the latter is gas-fed. A typical design popular in the Philippines is that a sidecar which is attached to the side of a motorcycle for carrying passengers.

The use of motorized tricycle is already a part of every Cabanatueno's everyday living. It is used as a mode of commuting, freight delivery system, private family service and source of income. A rough estimate made by the City Legalization Office in charge of issuing franchise to tricycle operators showed that there are 10,000 driver-operators of motorized tricycle plying daily in the city with color-coding in place. The operation of tricycle generates a daily income equivalent to P2 million pesos or roughly 40,000U$ (at the exchange rate of 1U$ = P50) from the riding public. In a recent study conducted by Balaria, it was found that there is a dwindling 5U$ daily income in operating a tricycle compared to 10U$ to 20U$ per day during the last decade [9] . The study also found that Cabanatuan continued to experience increase in tricycle population due to: 1) high unemployment and absence of alternative livelihood; and 2) increase in commuting population. Despite this trend, tricycles remain to be the prime mode of transportation in the City.

The use of tricycle as a mode of transportation actually poses hazards and adverse effects on the environment [10] . Yumul quoted that about 34% of total vehicular population in the Philippines is made up of two-and three-wheelers which also become the major contributor to pollution and other environmental and health hazards [11] [12] The use of motorized tricycle is also identified as the source of noise and air pollution exposing the public to a greater danger of health-related problems [13] . For instance, a 2-stroke engine tricycle is known to contribute to air pollution [14] in Jakarta Indonesia. Tricycles are identified as one of the public transport systems causing excessive gas emission contributing to lead and nitrogen dioxide release in the atmosphere [15] . At present, 99% of the Cabanatuan's tricycle population use four-stroke motor engines which generally produced higher carbon monoxide (CO); carbon dioxide(CO2), the 'greenhouse gas'; and Nitrogen Oxide (NOx), potential contributors to photochemical smog and to ozone layer depletion. According to Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Philippines' carbon dioxide emissions would nearly quadruple in less than 25 years because of automobile and motorcycle use. In view of this, several options have been laid to address the problem. The formulation and strict implementation of Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 and the introduction of electric tricycle are among the identified solutions. Consequently, the ADB in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE) has begun introducing the use of E-trike to the Local Government Units (LGUs) to replace the motorized tricycles. E-trike reduces carbon dioxide emissions and minimizes air pollution. It also avoids excessive fuel consumption and reduces oil dependency, and eventually increase job opportunities and tricycle drivers' income in the long run.

As part of culture and immediate source of livelihood among the residents of Cabanatuan, the change from motorized to E-tricycle is not just a mere policy issue. It affects not only those directly involved and its stakeholders, but to the whole system from planning to implementation. As of this writing the researchers have read no study conducted in Cabanatuan City, Philippines dealing specifically on the positive and negative effects of using E-trike in place of motorized tricycle. The social, political and economic impact of using electric-powered tricycle remains an unclear to most city folks. This is the gap that the study would like to address. In general, the study tried to explain the sustainability of using E-trike as a mode of public transportation in the city. It is specifically intended to:

a) Describe the tricycle industry in Cabanatuan City;

b) Describe the hazards of using four-stroke engine propelled three-wheeled tricycles to the environment and the community, and;

c) Determine the sustainability of adopting E-trike as an alternative mode of public transportation in the City and;

d) Describe the policy implication on the issue.

2. Methodology

The study used the descriptive method of research. The researcher used several research techniques in data gathering such as websites, documentary analysis, interviews, observations, and questionnaire-checklist. Convenience sampling was observed in the conduct of the interview. The study was made in 89 barangays in Cabanatuan City. Randomized block design was used to determine the sample size for the study. Hence, 412 tricycle operator-drivers were identified as the respondents. Basic accounting method for computing for the Return on Investment (ROI) was employed to compare the cost and return between the motorized one and E-trike.

2.1. Conceptual Framework

The study adopted the concept of sustainable development as framework of analysis leading to the proposed use of E-trike as an alternative to four-stroke engine propelled tricycle. Sustainable development as it is understood and observed is the ability of the present generation to meet their needs without sacrificing the right of the future generation to meet their own needs. The sustainable development approach consists of three main components namely; economic sustainability, environmental sustainability and socio-political sustainability [16] . The study would like to establish that the use of E-trike could change the way tricycle operators consume fossil fuels [17] and consequently change the socio-political and economic opportunities for the next generation of residents in the City. The current motorized four-stroke propelled engines of tricycles which are heavily reliant on fossil fuels. These results in greenhouse gases, which have been linked to climate change as well as negative health impacts as a result of air pollution, including smog and particulates. The environmental sustainability of E-trike is beyond a question of alternatives. The change from motorized to E- trike could eventually ensure a higher income and low maintenance cost for tricycle operators. The economic sustainability in the use of E-trike will provide economic self-sufficiency especially on the part of the operator arising from a short period Return of Investment (ROI). Finally, the socio-political sustainability rests on the assumption that economic well-being would result to greater social and political development in the families of drivers and tricycle operators. Higher standards of living and improved quality of life could trigger their desire to now finance and support the education of their children and the possible cultivation of a higher degree of political participation. The sustainability of the proposed alternative could promote higher social capital and heightened community involvement as parameters of good citizenship and community membership.

2.2. Theoretical Framework

The purpose of theoretical framework is to limit the scope of the study and guide in the data collection [18] . The study used David Easton's Systems approach [19] in the study of social and political life. As part of a social system, the operation of four-stroke propelled motorized tricycle affects the society as a whole, environmental and public health included. It is being used as the major means of public transport within the City and a source of livelihood for 9,000.00 city residents. As part of the economic and social system of the city, any change in policy involving tricycle may affect the residents which may create adverse political support and negative reaction within the sphere of the social system. In this case, it emanates from the driver-operators and the commuting public. Any policy issued by the City Council to the effect of using E-trike instead of the current motorized tricycle may strengthen or even lessen people's support to city government. On the other side, the proposed change in the mode of public transport may invite popular support or political action which may cause disturbance to the smooth functioning of the social system. Any public policy as in this case may offend or positively attract policy support. Therefore, the systems theory treats the entire social system as interlinked and interrelated such that malfunction in one subpart would create destruction or disruption of the other parts. Hence, the study is done to come up with the possible policy direction with less impact on the systems operation. From the above framework is derived the following research paradigm, to wit ( Figure 1).

The research paradigm shows the interrelatedness of variables in the study [20] . This used the systems approach in the study of the sustainability of E-trike. The paradigm shows the importance of determining first the current status of the tricycle industry in Cabanatuan City including its practices and the environmental and health hazards pose by the current system i.e., gas-fed tricycle. Then follows comparing the alternatives which has the greatest benefits i.e., cost and return of an investment as this can be the influencing factor in addressing the need for a change, and finally its acceptance. Hence, the possibility on the sustainability in the adoption of E-trike can be viewed using the economic, socio-political, and environmental models so that these will the basis for a policy recommendation.

Meanwhile, the feedback section will be used as basis for improvement, and if there is a need for modification or control of a process or system by its results or effects. This is necessary in the implementation and survival of regulatory mechanisms, and thus feedback is inherent to all interactions so adjustments can be made to achieve the desired result.

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Description of the Tricycle Industry in Cabanatuan City

The City of Cabanatuan is a first class city and the center of commerce and trade of the entire province of Nueva Ecija in the Philippines. It has a population of about 302,231 as of 2015. It has a land area of 192.29 square kilometers and categorized as first class city based on income. The city is also known as the "Tricycle Capital of the Philippines" having the greatest number of tricycles using the streets whether public or privately owned. A typical tricycle in Cabanatuan can carry 2 to 4 passengers (driver included) i.e., two passengers at the sidecar and one at the back of the driver [21] . The type of service is door-to-door. Most of the tricycles in Cabanatuan are run by four-stroke motor engines. Sidecars are improvised structure made of scrap metals. There is at present no law that regulates the size and configuration of sidecars which technically makes it a road hazard and prone to accidents. Sidecars are actually undersized for a common Filipino commuter which made it unstable and accident prone.

The mushrooming of commercial establishments, offices, and subdivisions in the city has created a demand for more tricycles. This development has triggered economic activities that have also increased employment opportunities and income among its residents. Cabanatuan has a road network which spans to a total length of 350.24 kilometers [8] . A rough estimate of 9% of the population is engaged in tricycle operation as a means of livelihood, the highest in terms of number compared to other cities in the Philippines.

The current fare for tricycle is P14 or (U$ 0.28¢) for every regular passenger for the first kilometer and additional P2 (U$ 0.044¢) for every succeeding kilometer where the rate decreases depending on the distance and number of passenger. The recent survey made by the authors indicated that Cabanatuan imposed the highest tricycle fare in the country making the rate uncompetitive. Survey further also revealed that the income derived from this occupation is seldom sufficient for the daily needs of the respondents. The regulation of tricycles as a public mode is devolved at the local level [22] . There are numerous city ordinances on tricycle operation, and implementation of such remains under the Local Government Unit's control.

Owning a tricycle in the city would entail an investment between U$ 1,200- U$ 1800 per unit. This already includes the sidecar which can be purchased between U$ 180 - U$ 300. Majority are financed by motorcycle companies usually made available thru monthly amortization at approximately U$ 48 - U$ 60 over a period of three years. Maintenance cost is estimated at $ 70 annually. Current fare vis-à-vis volume of passenger daily can be translated into U$ 7 gross income excluding the cost of gasoline at U$ 2 - U$ 3, thereby giving the operator a net income of U$ 5.

3.2. Hazards Motorized Tricycles Pose to the Environment

In the study conducted in 2005 by Asian Development Bank, emission test on tricycles showed that hydrocarbon was at 6000 ppm or 10 times the acceptable standards. While Cabanatuan's tricycle population comprises 90% four-stroke engines, the same ADB studies (2005) revealed that this type of motor engine may be more efficient in some ways than two-strokes, but still emits Nitrogen Oxide, Carbon Dioxide and are higher in terms of engine operating temperature. The ADB study [23] and the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed the tricycles are the major source of noise even in the presence of the mandatory law on tail pipe emission tests. This includes the hazards it pose to human health. Survey further revealed that although there were few reported accidents in the city, tricycles are more accident prone due to 1) sidecar instability, 2) reckless and abusive drivers and inferior quality of sidecar made of scrap materials. In the case of Cabanatuan, tricycles are identified as the greatest contributor to its traffic congestion since public utility vehicles are limited only to major thoroughfares. The volume of tricycles roaming the city far exceeds the city's road network. Lukewarm implementation of "no tricycle zone" along public highways has aggravated the number of accidents. Limited seating capacity also leads to unintended accidents resulting from overloading and recklessness on the part of the driver. Insufficient regulation on franchises also allows unscrupulous individuals to use tricycle who pose as legitimate tricycle operator to commit offense on passengers. Stricter regulatory policy on tricycle operation minimizes hazards caused by unregulated operation of this public utility vehicle.

3.3. Sustainability of E-Trike

The ADB in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE) initially presented 5 units of E-trike to the city government of Cabanatuan on July 2013. As planned, E-trike would operate like mini jeepney on selected routes, and would directly compete with local public utility vehicles (PUVs). As observed by the researchers, there was a mixed reaction from the riding public as regard E-trike replacing motorized engine tricycles―neither were they excited nor curious about its capacity and configuration. Random interviews with the commuters signified a more positive acceptance on this proposed LGU project, but opined that the fare would be uncompetitive since it was patterned after the present fare matrix that of motorized tricycles. Following E-trike's proposed rate of P8-P10 (U$ 0.16¢ - U$ 0.20¢) per passenger made the observers apprehensive about its economic viability to driver-operator-investor. Respondents also doubted if there would be savings in the commuter's transportation cost, and estimated to incur only additional cost because of limited routes. Noticeable also was the visible resentment from PUV operators when the pilot run was tested. E-trike's structure is made of bioplastic material. It consists of parts such as windshields, dashboards, side mirrors and handlebars with body structure similar to jeepneys. E-trikes can also load up to ten passengers including the driver and its design can be customized.

3.4. Economic Sustainability

Once a shift to E- trike is implemented, there will also be a shift in the demand for the services, spareparts providers, sidecar manufacturers and technicians. However, there is a looming doubt among operators on whether the resolution to change from motorized tricycle to E-trike would be passed by the LGU. In the same survey, operator-respondents indicated that unemployment would be unavoidable. They also doubted if there is any reduction in fuel consumption because the initiative only covered the tricycle subsector and did not include other vehicles. The tricycle transport service in Cabanatuan remains to be the primary source of income in the absence of employment opportunities. Inversely, the negative impact that E-trike may bring can be compensated through employment opportunities creation when E-trike providers come in. The experiences of Mandaluyong City (2011) proved to have high acceptance rate both on the E-trike operators and the commuting public. Similarly, performance of E-trike outweighed the conventional tricycles in terms of speed. In terms of capital outlay, there is an apprehension on the part of driver-operators whether they can afford the price of E-trike. The unit introduced by Asian Development Bank would cost the investor between P180, 000 - P200, 000+ (U$ 3600 - U$ 4000+) per unit. Some foreign investors are just as interested and willing to manufacture and finance this project. In part too, this can be facilitated by the Local Government Unit (LGU) with the support from creditors and guaranteed by the Philippine Government, and the willingness of private sector to invest and partner with stakeholders. Initially, ADB is providing U$ 300 million loan for this project. One of the proposed financing terms would be the lease-to-own agreement scheme. Nevertheless, the apparent disadvantage in the shift from E-trike to motorized tricycle would mean a loss of job and income for most of the tricycle operators. In some cities in the Philippines E-trike operators have reported a greater take-home pay of between 16$ to 20$ per day.

3.5. Unit Specification, Financial Viability and Maintenance Cost Compared

In terms of passenger capacity, E-trike can carry up to 9 passengers as against 4 for motorized. The lead battery type is used in the four-stroke engine type, while lithium rechargeable battery is used in the former. While motorized tricycles use gasoline, E-trike battery charges on electricity which costs motorists P11.00 (U$ 0.22¢) per kwh. Therefore, for every kilometer use for motorized tricycle, there is a cost of P1.20 (U$ 0.024¢) of gasoline and P0.30 (U$ 0.006¢) electricity for E-trike. A gasoline savings of P0.90 (U$ 0.018¢) for E-trike is identified ( Table 1).

Apparently, E-trike is every aspect is more advantageous in terms of fuel savings, while doubling the number the passengers it can carry ( Table 2).

Since this technology is practically new in the market, the cost of lithium battery is estimated to cost U$ 120 with an estimated useful life of 3 years. The cost

. Comparative specifications and passenger capacity of motorized versus E-Trike.

Exchange Rate Computation U$ 1 = P 50.

. Financial viability analysis. (1 st year of operation).

*Payments summed up to a single transaction. Notes: Since vehicle replacement parts vary in price and can be broken down into several units, averaging can be computed without distorting the actual value.

of spare parts and service can be projected at U$ 80 annually for motorized and U$ 40 for E-trike, respectively.

It can be noted that under the motorized type, data gathered was based on industry experience. Assumptions underlying financial projections were made for E-trike because of its newness in the market, but conservative estimates were made to come up to a more realistic figure. For example, P92,250 (U$ 1,845) service income for motorized tricycle was arrived at by dividing that amount by P14 (U$ 0.28¢) per passenger per travel, and divide again to 365 (days in a year) can be translated into 28 rides per day. Similarly, the P273, 176 (U$ 5,463.52) service income from e-trike was assumed at 7 travels per day based on 10-passenger capacity per travel at P14 (U$ 0.28¢) fare rate per passenger. The income P92, 250 (U$ 1,845) and P273, 176 (U$ 5,463.52) for the motorized and E-trike, respectively further reveal a P250 (U$ 5) and P748 (U$ 14.96) revenues daily. Return on investment, on the other hand, implies that investment on both can be recouped in less than a year. Note that 100% (ROI) is equivalent to one (1) year. The higher the percentage, the lesser is the time to recoup the investment.

3.6. Social and Political Sustainability

An informant from the City Government of Cabanatuan disclosed that a change in public transportation could be possible through a city ordinance since tricycle operation had been devolved to the local government. But there are many factors to consider like: the 1) alternative source of livelihood for those who would be displaced, 2) cost per unit of E-trike, 3) availability of credit facilities and the limited capacity of the operators to transact with lending institutions which in most cases require collateral unless government-guaranteed, and 4) the willingness of private businesses to venture or partner with the government to promote E-trike. Accordingly, it was advised that shifting from engine propelled motorcycle to E-trike could only be possible after 5 to 10 years.

The local legislative body is the Sanggunian (vernacular and legal term for "council") which is one of the branches of Local Government Unit who performs the crucial role of providing policies necessary for local development [22] . The inaction of the Sanggunian would mean economic retrogression, while its action could bring about genuine countryside development. The Sanggunian as a collegial body could create an effective local governance responsive to the demands of the people [24] . The power to remove and withdraw franchise for tricycle operation in the city is also lodged with the Sanggunian [25] . It is also within the power of the Sanggunian to order the change from motorized tricycle to E-trike as an attribute of its "general welfare function" [26] .

The use of E-trike indicates acceptability both to operators and the riding public. Of the 412 tricycle operator-respondents interviewed, 243 are amenable to change in the city's transportation system, 128 are not knowledgeable, 105 implied lack of resources to purchase E-trike, while 97 are complacent or showed no interest on the issue. Random interviews made during the initial test run of E-trike in Cabanatuan showed that there is a high acceptability on the use of E-trike. In fact, 24 out of 41 commuting respondents said that they are agreeable to the use of E-trike. Majority or 32 of them doubted that the proposed fare would be competitive. The City has an increasing population at 2% growth annually and development of commercial centers could further create demand for transportation especially for tricycles.

The tricycle industry in Cabanatuan City still and will remain to be a viable source of livelihood for the City residents. The City government controls the issuance of franchise to allow ordinary residents to engage in public utility business. The drivers and operators remain a potent source of votes for politicians. Hence, public demands for the change from motorized tricycle to E-trike can strike a good policy direction. The negative effect, however is the cost of production of E-trike which amounts to almost P200, 000 (U$ 4,000) or 3 times the amount of motorized tricycle. This is the area where possible government and private sector partnership may enter into the picture. The private sector may collaborate with the local government unit to finance the manufacturing of E-trike. This partnership arrangement is sanctioned by the 1991 Local Government Code of the Philippines [27] . The manufacturing of new side car would also create additional jobs for the city residents leading to the increase of per capita income of the city. This is in addition to the increase in real income for the 30,000 registered tricycle operators resulting from the decrease in maintenance cost of electric tricycle or E-trike compared to motorized tricycle. The political importance of the issue would generate political support to the local government by providing public policy that is responsive to the social and political demands of the commuting public and the driver-operators consisting of more than 80,000 families and members. The political support to the change in favor of E- trike is overwhelming except in terms of the cost of the unit where the driver-operator must put up capital that he never anticipated. The local government therefore may transform the public demand into a policy while subsidizing the unit in part or in whole as a form financial assistance especially during the early stage of policy implementation. The availability of improved & innovative mass transportation system will also help commuters and the economy as a whole. Essentially, this will pave the way for new inventions and discoveries. Its use is also a signal on the willingness of the residents to embrace new technology while mitigating the harmful effects to the environment of the motorized tricycle.

3.7. Environmental Sustainability

The City of Cabanatuan is known for being one of a few warmest cities in the Philippines during summer season. There are only two seasons in the Philippines i.e., rainy and summer seasons. The warmest temperature experienced by the city every summer is attributed not only to its geographical location but also of the gas emissions created by nearly 30,000 tricycles operating in the city. As part of the central plain of Luzon surrounded by mountain ranges where hot climate temperature is locked within the plain and engulfed by mountain ranges from escaping towards the Pacific Ocean. Aside from the hot temperature, gas emission and its particulates from motorized tricycle engine combustion contribute even more to the warming of the city. The annual estimates for the 9000 tricycles plying daily on Cabanatuan's streets would mean a gasoline consumption of 4.3 million liters a year. As the Philippines is a net importer of energy, the increasing transportation needs become costly over time. In effect, E-trike will reduce carbon dioxide emissions and air pollution, avoid fuel cost and reduce oil dependency. Meanwhile, ADB report disclosed that E-trikes are anticipated to reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 2,600,000 tons. The issue on the use of E-trike goes with it the issue on alternative livelihood for 9% of the population of Cabanatuan who rely on tricycle driving as source of income and the need of the riding public. In some other context, New York City is now gearing towards green deliveries where freight tricycles powered by electricity charged batteries move within the city to deliver goods and commodities. The City sees numerous advantages such as environment friendly, limited parking space required, decongestion of major roads in the City and short period of travel time.

The use of E-trike was introduced to the public in an environment friendly vehicle campaign in the Philippines in 2012. There are 623 types of electric vehicles (EV) tried and demonstrated in many LGUs in the country. The E-vehicle program is one of the government's initiative towards sustainable, energy efficient and low carbon transport future. The DOE launched in January 2012 its "Bright Now! Do Right. Be Bright. Go E-trike!" designs an electric tricycle contest to encourage and promote designs of the Philippine version of "Green Vehicle". Vehicular emissions including tricycles lower air quality. Many solutions to the problem have been identified like planting of trees along the roadside to contain deadly gas emissions of vehicles specifically during peak hours [28] . The Philippine government launched several programs designed to lessen the impact of the use of vehicles on air pollution. The National Gas Vehicle Program for Public Transport, under Executive Order No. 290, aims to promote the use of natural gas as a clean alternative fuel for transport systems such as buses, jeepneys, taxis and other public utility vehicles. Among the various modes of transport that caught up with this program are taxis. Another program is a joint project with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), commonly known as the E-trike project. This project replaces 100,000 gasoline-fueled tricycles with electric tricycles (E-trikes) by 2017. The project shall be supported financially by ADB through a $300 million loan [23] . E-trike has a quieter engine, lesser moving parts, cheaper operating costs, has no tailpipe emissions, and runs on electricity. The mainstream use of electric jeepneys/tricycles would yield beneficial impacts toward reducing oil dependence and improved air quality [29] . In an experiment conducted in London, 6 electric tricycles and 3 electric vans delivered the cargo from the distribution center to final customers. The operation of these electric vehicles did not result in any fossil fuel consumption or greenhouse gas emissions because the electricity used by these electric vehicles was produced from renewable sources. The result showed great benefits: total distance travelled was reduced by 20% and the CO2 emissions per parcel fell by 54% [30] . The design of E-trike also provides solution to traffic congestion. The main causes of congestion are poor driving habits, poor road network, inadequate road capacity, lack of parking facilities and design of motor vehicles load capacity [31] . An adult tricycle is comprised of a standard conventional adult tricycle and a double occupancy child seat connected with the operator's portion of the vehicle. The seating capacity is 3 passengers and one driver [32] . The prevailing E -trike design in the market can load up to 9 passengers including the driver. This means that one E-trike is comparable to 2 two motorized tricycles. This also would mean a decongestion of the major streets in Cabanatuan City. The traffic decongestion would also mean less fuel consumption and less travel time and mobility which could be computed in terms of economic valuation. The traffic decongestion would also mean less gas emission that may destroy the ozone layer.

3.8. Policy Implication

The clamor for the use of E-trike has not ripened into actionable popular demand. The demand for the local government to shift from fuel powered tricycle to electricity charged battery may attract political support from the tricycle operators and the public. This however must be supported by intense demands to deserve political action and reach the agenda setting of the local city council. The sector that is bound to benefit from the policy must logically steer the issue so that it reaches the attention of policy maker and may prioritize it for policy formulation. In reality, there are issues that are potential subject of policy formulation that have not even reached the stage of agenda setting for the failure of the proponents to sustain the necessary political and social actions. The policy process is basically a unity between political and administrative actions. Thus, lobbying, influence peddling, petition making, legislative and executive pressure groups are but few means to push an issue to the stage of policy formulation. But as the study showed, there is not enough reason for the city council to prioritize the issue despite the financial assistance offered by the ADB. There are multifarious issues that an LGU faces. All these need priority legislative actions and local resources that are finite and limited. Thus, for the issue to reach policy formulation phase, enough social and political pressures are necessary. The policy on using E-trike does not require extra ordinary political will for the local legislature to respond accordingly to the public demand and public choice. It is both politically sustainable and socially acceptable. It only requires sufficient clamor from the people of having a stake and whose interests are only dependent on tricycle operation. The local legislative body reacts naturally to any political and social demands. But such demands must be pressing and sufficient to drive the initiative of the local legislative policy making machineries and transform these demands into a public policy. Unfortunately, the issue on the use of E-trike has not even reached policy formulation stage.

4. Conclusion/Recommendation

4.1. Conclusion

Many Cabanatuenos rely on tricycle driving as a source of livelihood. The study showed that despite declining income attributed to tricycle operation; it remains to be the primary source of income for most of its residents. Although the current transportation system uses the four-stroke motorcycle engine which is more environment-friendly than the traditional two-sttroke, it is not totally safe because the gas particulates it emits that causes global warming other than the hazards it poses to public health. Comparative study on the unit's specification reveals that E-trike is more efficient in terms of body design as it is safer, less fuel consumption and almost double in passenger capacity. Although capital outlay for E-trike is more than twice than that of the conventional tricycle, return on investment on the former can be recouped in a shorter period of time. Resistance to the change in the mode is divided among its stakeholders because of job displacement, prohibitive cost of the unit and lack of credit facilities despite ADB offered assistance. The adoption of E-trike is in the long run and sustainable in terms of economic, socio-political and environmental impact. The change in the mode of transportation has more advantages because it does not use fossil fuel, increases income of the operator and has a greater socio-political impact. The LGU legislation of E-trike adoption is nil in the near future because of political pressures since majority of stakeholders belong to voting masses.

4.2. Recommendation

The study showed the need to further understand the effects, advantages and disadvantages as regard this planned change in the mode of public transportation system. The limitation of the study is the lack of data available specifically dealing with the efficiency of E-trike to replace the conventional tricycle. Proper information dissemination may be needed focused more on its advantages and its economic and environmental sustainability. The City government may also consider a proactive stance on the issue to implement mandatory orientation of tricycle operators on the possible change from motorized to E-trike and develop programs such as other sources of livelihood for the tricycle operators who would be displaced by this change, and for them to take the initiative and support the Clean Air Act by establishing mechanism and structures supportive on the use of E-trike.

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Sustainability of E-Trike as Alternative Mode of Public Transportation System: The Case of Cabanatuan City, Philippines

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The City of Cabanatuan is dubbed as the "Tricycle Capital of the Philippines". Tricycle is a three wheeled vehicle used to transport people. Cabanatuan has about 30,000 registered gas-fed four-stroke motorized tricycles. Tricycle operation in this City has become the source of livelihood for around 10,000 families.

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URL: https://www.asyousow.org/blog/2018/6/11/automakers-fighting-for-dirtier-cars
TOPIC: Automakers Fighting for Dirtier Cars?
AUTHOR: Danielle Fugere and Zack Reda
DATE: June 11, 2018
KEY INFO: As the Trump administration announces a weakening of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, it is important that American automakers do not ease up in their emission reductions.