This morning the New York Times published what they are calling the most detailed map of auto emissions in America . In it, they remind us that transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gases in the US today and that most of it comes from our driving habits within metro areas. See below charts.
Not surprisingly, if you look at total on-road emissions, the biggest cities -- New York and Los Angeles -- are at the top of the list. But you also have car-dependant regions like Dallas-Fort Worth that punch above their (population) weight in terms of total emissions.
Now, here's where it gets interesting. The story flips as soon as you adjust for population.
On a per capita basis, New York is pretty much at the bottom of the list. It is yet another reminder that one of the most sustainable ways to live is in a dense urban environment where it is possible to get around without the use of a car. New York is, of course , one of the best places in the US to do exactly that.
Charts: New York Times