Analysis of Carbon Footprint and Comfort for Bus System Regarding Optimum Daily Trips

Abstract

Sustainable and smart management of public transportation systems depends on continuous monitoring and analysis of the data collected at regular intervals. One of the key research topics in this area is determining bus service frequency and developing appropriate schedules. The number of buses and their frequencies have a significant impact on the entire transportation system, affecting all users of the network. To address this issue, bus service frequencies during peak hours should be determined based on passenger demand. In this study, the daily frequencies of the bus system of a city (Denizli, Turkey) were investigated, the carbon footprints of the system were analyzed, and suggestions were provided. This is determined by the model developed regarding the linear optimization method. The goal programming approach is used in the analysis. The existing frequencies are compared with that provided by the goal programming approach. Additionally, the results obtained are investigated by a cost analysis regarding different benefit rates (carbon footprint, total kilometer, and passenger comfort) for the public. By implementing the recommended bus service frequencies, significant financial and environmental improvements can be achieved.