Abstract
This study attempts to examine the possible merits of introducing a new LRT (Light Rail Transit) system by specifically comparing the environmental impacts throughout its whole life cycle to those of BRT (Bus Rapid Transit). Emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides are respectively estimated and integrated to monetary index using LIME. Six alternative scenarios were determined considering the ripple effects on traffic volume and travel speed of passenger car on the road. The results demonstrate that life cycle environmental load of LRT is lower than that of BRT. Besides, the reduction in passenger car trip demand is important in the cases of both changing an existing bus system to either BRT or LRT, and also an existing classical tramline to LRT.
