ICF International Analysis Highlights the Potential Role of Transportation Demand Management Strategies in Reducing Air Pollution

FAIRFAX, Va.--Today ICF International released a new analysis of the role of transportation demand management (TDM) strategies in reducing air pollutant emissions. Despite substantial improvements in emissions control technologies, motor vehicles continue to be a major source of air pollution. In the United States, many areas will need to reduce multiple air pollutants in order to comply with health-based air quality standards. By reducing vehicle travel or shifting travel to less congested periods, TDM programs can be a meaningful component of regional air quality improvement plans.

“The role of TDM as an emissions reduction strategy is evolving as many parts of the country face air quality challenges associated with new national air quality standards for ozone and fine particulate matter, as well as concerns about global climate change,” according to Michael Grant, an ICF expert in transportation issues. “In addition to reducing air pollution, TDM programs have ancillary benefits in reducing greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions, contributing to a more multimodal transportation system, and enhancing communities’ quality of life.”

Although a comprehensive approach to reducing emissions requires both technology and TDM strategies, TDM strategies are notable since they reduce emissions of all air pollutants from motor vehicles, unlike technologies that target specific pollutants. Reducing multiple air pollutants is an important consideration in areas facing multiple air quality problems. TDM strategies reduce motor vehicle emissions by encouraging the use of transit, bicycling, or walking; increasing vehicle occupancy through carpooling or vanpooling; eliminating vehicle trips through strategies such as telecommuting and compressed work weeks; reducing vehicle trip lengths through better urban design and land use mixing; and trip chaining. In addition, some TDM strategies encourage shifts from peak travel periods to less congested periods, thereby reducing travel delay and idling.

“ICF is at the forefront of developing innovative, cost-effective programs to address transportation challenges, and advising governments at all levels on effective strategies for improving environmental performance,” said Janet D’Ignazio, head of transportation at ICF. “This analysis shows the potential role of TDM strategies as one part of the solution.”

ICF will exhibit at the 2007 National Air Quality Conference, sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA), taking place February 11-14, in Orlando, Florida. Look for Michael Grant at the conference on February 12 as he discusses ICF’s experience in his presentation, “Converting an Ozone Action Days Program into a Year-Round Air Quality Outreach Program in the New York Metro Area.”

Download ICF’s report at www.icfi.com/tdmstrategies.

ICF International partners with government and commercial clients to deliver consulting services and technology solutions in the energy, environment, transportation, social programs, defense, and homeland security markets. The firm combines passion for its work with industry expertise and innovative analytics to produce compelling results throughout the entire program life cycle, from analysis and design through implementation and improvement. Since 1969, ICF has been serving government at all levels, major corporations, and multilateral institutions. More than 2,000 employees serve these clients worldwide. ICF’s Web site is http://www.icfi.com.