Affordable and
Free Public Transportation:
Boosting Sustainability
and the Economy

Traveling can be expensive, but some countries are making it easier and more sustainable by offering affordable or free public transportation for residents and visitors alike. These initiatives not only save travelers money but also have a positive impact on the environment. 

Examples of countries offering affordable or free public transportation

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, was one of the first cities to offer free public transportation in 2013. The initiative aimed to reduce traffic congestion and pollution by incentivizing the use of eco-friendly transportation. In the first year, the city saw an increase of over 10% in ridership, which led to a decrease in the number of cars on the road, positively impacting the city and its citizens.

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Luxembourg is another city that offers free public transportation, including buses, trams, and trains. The measure was implemented in 2020 to encourage more people to use public transportation instead of driving. The initiative is estimated to save the average commuter around 1000 euros per year, boosting the economy by providing more disposable income to the public.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul offers convenient public transportation. Fares start from 1,250 won, which is around 1.10 US dollars. The government has also invested in eco-friendly transportation, introducing electric buses and hydrogen cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Changzhou, China

The city of Changzhou, in China, has a comprehensive public system with buses, subways, and other types of sustainable public transportation. The fares are affordable, with a single bus ride costing around 1 RMB (approximately 0.15 USD).

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

In 2002, Chapel Hill introduced a fare-free public transit system called “Chapel Hill Transit,” which offers free bus rides throughout the city. The initiative has been successful in reducing traffic congestion and providing more accessible transportation options for low-income residents.

Low-cost or free public transportation brings numerous benefits:

• It helps decrease the number of cars on the road, positively impacting air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and related health issues. 

• It promotes the use of eco-friendly transportation which reduces the carbon footprint of a city or country.

• Free public transportation has an economic benefit because the reduction of traffic congestion increases productivity and saves time.

• It makes cities more attractive to tourists, which can contribute to improving local business activity and generating more revenue. 

• Affordable or free public transportation promotes social equity by making transportation more accessible to people from all walks of life, regardless of their financial status. This can lead to a more connected and inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to participate in various activities and events.


Implementing these initiatives can be costly, but it is essential in order to create a greener and more affluent future. It is time for more countries and cities to follow the example of Tallinn, Luxembourg, Seoul, Changzhou, and Chapel Hill (to name a few) and invest in sustainable public transportation that is free or at a low-cost option for all. 

Would you like to receive more inspiration directly to your email inbox?
Please click here to register for Ecotourism World newsletter!