Social Sustainability in Public Transportation

While Germany has been a leader in development, the country is not free of its own shortcomings. This is most noticeable in the recent rise of racist ideologies within the country. In 2019, the German Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency reported that 33% of complaints dealt with racism, which is a 10% increase from 2016. (Bosen) In order for Germany to be leaders of social sustainability, fair and equitable access to resources and public transport are required. However, some groups have experienced long-term discrimination. For example, there has been decreased investment in public transport infrastructure in areas of predominantly Roma ethnicity. Similarly, there are many horror stories of racial discrimination occurring on public transport routes as well. Exclusion from public transport creates higher costs which increase cost of living. In order for marginalized groups, like the Roma people, to be properly included within German society, fair and safe access to public transport should be prioritized. The German government could try inclusive education campaigns to decrease racist sentiments.

If Germany hopes to increase equitable access to healthcare, then the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions is essential. Health issues that are related to carbon emissions have become main concerns both internationally and domestically, and a reduction would be a benefit to everyone. Additionally, those that live near coal power plants are further hurt by carbon emissions. To protect current and future generations, switching to green and nuclear energy would provide drastic improvements in life.