Final answer:
Public transportation reduces fossil fuel use and mitigates climate change. Subsidizing its use can save money and promote environmental benefits. High costs and technological issues limit the current adoption of electric cars as an alternative.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of public transportation is seen as one of the best options for decreasing the use of fossil fuels for transportation. In the United States, over a quarter of emissions stem from transportation, with a significant portion from private vehicles. Transitioning to public transportation, along with urban planning that encourages telecommuting and non-vehicular travel, could mitigate climate change and reduce our carbon footprint. While electric cars present a futuristic alternative, their current high costs and technological drawbacks limit widespread adoption at this stage. Meanwhile, Europe's emphasis on public transit serves as a contrast to the U.S.'s car-oriented infrastructure. Subsidies for public transportation, such as providing free rides for students, can not only save money but also promote environmental sustainability. Lastly, the increasing cost of traffic congestion, both in terms of time and money, suggests that more efficient public transportation could be an economical choice.