Environmental Considerations
One of the most significant environmental benefits to be gained from
the use of the Magplane System will be the reduction in the growth
of automobile exhaust emissions. Automobiles are the largest source
of air pollution, and a major contributor to the "Greenhouse
Effect". Because Magplane vehicles are able to transport large
numbers of people and significant amounts of freight, Magplane can
reduce the growth of vehicular traffic, air pollution and
congestion.  A
great advantage of the Magplane System over conventional high speed
ground systems is that it is designed to operate at full speed
within existing highway rights-of-way. A Magplane is the only
high-speed ground system that can bank like a plane and therefore
greatly reduce or minimize the need to acquire new and straighter
routes. Because of this, cost for land acquisition and the impact on
environmentally sensitive lands can be minimized.
 Because
of the low contact pressure of Magplane vehicles, the supporting
guideways and pier foundations will be much smaller than
conventional train and roadway bridge construction.
The smaller required footings minimize and localize the potential
environmental impact within the construction area. In addition, the
elevated magway lends itself to construction techniques which allow
for additions from the end of magway spans and above sensitive
areas. This construction method virtually eliminates land surface
alterations with the exception of pier placement.  Because
of the Magplane's ability to climb grades, limited only by passenger
comfort, and to utilize existing highway corridors, flood plain
management can be only minimally affected. Since the Magplane's
guideway is elevated, large areas of cut and fill to achieve
operating grade elevations are not necessary. Magplane guideways
will also be able to span navigable waterways with sufficient
elevation to allow for uninterrupted ship traffic without
drawbridges.  The
Magplane system can have a significant impact on the future
management of greenhouse gas emissions by relieving future growth of
road transport. Road transport accounts for 80% of the
transportation emissions. To meet the Kyoto Protocol commitments,
the transportation sector has to achieve a target emissions
reduction of 32% by 2010.
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