Catalyzing Urban Health and Sustainability: The Impact of Electric Bus Fleet Electrification in Justice 40 Communities of Salt Lake County

This study explores the transformative impact of transitioning from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) buses to electric buses (ebuses) in urban public transportation, focusing on the Justice 40 communities in Salt Lake County, Utah. The research underscores the significant reduction in harmful emissions - specifically CO2, NOx, and PM2.5 - resulting from this shift, highlighting the environmental and public health benefits. Utilizing data from the Utah Transit Authority's (UTA) new electric bus fleet, the study employs a comprehensive approach, combining real-world operational data with simulations from the Motor Vehicle Emission Simulator (MOVES). This approach offers a nuanced understanding of the emissions landscape and the potential for air quality improvement in densely populated urban areas adversely impacted by tailpipe emissions. Special attention is given to the westside of Salt Lake City, a designated Justice 40 community, where residents have historically faced heightened exposure to transportation-related pollution. By analyzing the effects of electrifying bus fleets in these communities, the study illustrates how such initiatives can be crucial in addressing environmental injustices and improving the quality of life for marginalized urban populations. The findings advocate for the accelerated adoption of electric buses as a key strategy in creating more sustainable, equitable, and health-conscious urban environments.