Public transport is among the things that major European cities just simply do better than the United States. Berlin, in specific, has a top of the line train system. The S-Bahn, which runs above ground, services Berlin with a 330 kilometer (roughly 205 miles) network. The trains run roughly 21 hours a day during the week, and 24 hours a day on the weekend. Each stop has a train rolling through at five, ten, or twenty minute intervals. The U-Bahn, which runs below ground, services 146 kilometer (90 miles) network. The Underground holds similar hours to the S-Bahn, and runs mostly in five and ten minute intervals.
Not only is public transportation cost effective, but it conserves energy and reduces air pollution as well. In a study done in the state of Delaware it was reported that commuter trains use 23.7% less energy per passenger mile than your average car. It was also reported that on average, trains only emit 25% as many nitrogen oxides per passenger mile, and nearly 100% less hydrocarbons and carbon monoxides. Because most rail vehicles are run by electricity, they emit no pollution. This means that the air in Berlin can be cleaner and fresher.
To further reduce air pollution, Berlin officials have made the inner most part of the city an “environmental zone.” This zone requires that all vehicles that drive in it must meet certain emission standards. It also sets certain speed limit requirements for the area. Not only does this lower emissions, but heavily cuts down the congestion and traffic within the city.
In addition to trains, a top transport choice in Berlin is biking. Bike racks are provided almost everywhere, and it’s not unusual to see racks completely full as pictured above. Berlin also has rentable bikes sitting on virtually every corner.