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    PA: SEPTA Shows Significant Results in Annual 'SEP-TAINABLE' Sustainability Report

    Feb. 27, 2014
    International Environmental Certification achieved in 2013 and “Green” building practices among highlights of annual report.
    Related To: Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)

    SEPTA has released the 2013 “SEP-TAINABLE” report that details a year of significant progress and major accomplishments made towards SEPTA’s goal of building a more sustainable transit agency and region.

    The report tracks the agency’s progress concentrating on twelve specific goals. Highlighted in this year’s report are two major projects. The first is the certification of the Berridge Bus Overhaul Shop in the Logan section of city which earned certification of the internationally recognized ISO 14001:2001 standard for the implementation of environmentally sustainable practices and procedures.

    The other project highlighted focuses on the environmentally-friendly, and fiscally-sound procedures used in the renovation of the 33rd & Dauphin Bus Loop in Strawberry Mansion. The historic loop, officially reopened in September 2013, features a fully grass covered “green roof”, new bike racks, and modern stormwater management. The entire project was finished ahead of schedule and below budget, allowing SEPTA to allocate the remaining funds to revitalize two additional bus loops in North Philadelphia.

    Other report highlights include:

    • Measurable progress towards reduction of water use and storm water runoff at SEPTA facilities.
    • Substantial reductions in greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions from vehicles and systems.
    • Significant progress towards the reduction and reuse of waste and recyclable materials system-wide.
    • Noteworthy improvements in operating expense performance, outperforming annualized industry growth rate.
    • Ongoing investments made in transit oriented development projects.
    • The growth of 4 farmers markets on SEPTA property, increasing access to fresh, local produce.
    • Innovative use of community collaborations and marketing support to encourage sustainability.

    “SEPTA is in the business of sustainability”, said Joseph M. Casey, SEPTA’s general manager regarding the impressive results reported in the fourth annual report. “Our approach is triple-bottom-line, accounting for economic, social, and environmental organizational needs and regional opportunities. We will continue to work with our partners on a three pronged people-planet-prosperity approach to drive sustainable decision-making throughout our own organization, and our entire service region.”