Every bus trip, cleaner vehicle and smarter operational choice adds up. Across San Mateo County, SamTrans is taking practical steps to reduce emissions, improve air quality and make it easier for people to choose transit over driving.
“The progress we’re seeing across SamTrans is a big deal,” said Senior Manager of Strategic and Environmental Planning Chelsea Schultz. “We’re excited that SamTrans is greener than it has ever been in its 50-year history. We’re making changes that are having a real impact, from putting more zero-emission buses on the road to reducing energy use at our facilities.”
That commitment is reflected in how SamTrans plans, operates and invests for the future. The San Mateo County Transit District’s Sustainability Policy calls for incorporating sustainable practices into daily operations and long-term decision-making.
Your ride makes a difference
Choosing to take SamTrans helps create a cleaner, less congested San Mateo County. By taking this step, you can:
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts
Decrease fossil fuel consumption
Save money on fuel, parking and vehicle maintenance
Reduce traffic congestion
Improve regional air quality
Check out the Carbon Savings Calculator to see how choosing transit can reduce your carbon footprint.
Small changes. Measurable impact.
Take the EPX, which connects East Palo Alto and Redwood City. By choosing this express commuter service instead of driving three days a week, you can make a measurable difference each month.
By choosing the EPX, you can:
Avoid approximately 106 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e)
Avoid using about 5 gallons of gasoline
Save roughly $34 in fuel costs alone
EPX is primarily operated with battery-electric buses, which produce zero tailpipe emissions. By choosing the bus for regular trips, you can help reduce emissions while keeping more money in your wallet.
Progress you can see
SamTrans recently published its first interactive 2026 SamTrans Sustainability Dashboard Report, featuring data from fiscal years 2023 through 2025.
The report highlights:
Approximately 19% less natural gas use at agency facilities
Approximately 26% growth in ridership between fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2025
Continued rollout of zero-emission battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric buses
The cleanest fleet in SamTrans history
Looking ahead
The work continues beyond the bus fleet. SamTrans is evaluating updates to its transportation demand management program, re-examining waste and disposal practices, improving waste sorting and responsibly disposing of retired office equipment.
The District also is advancing priorities identified in its 10-Year Strategic Plan and pursuing a higher level of recognition through the APTA Sustainability Commitment Program.
From the bus we take to work to the resources we use behind the scenes, every choice matters. SamTrans is committed to making those choices count — for our riders, our employees, our communities and the future of San Mateo County.
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