Most people look at the inland river water system and think its sole purpose is for independent boating and fun water activities. However, the inland waterways provide a transportation network that is used by many businesses. Besides offering a great water system for your own personal enjoyment, the inland water system actually offers plenty of economic and environmental benefits. Take a look at how this system benefits the US.
Congestion Relief
When items are shipped via barge, it helps to lighten the amount of traffic we experience on a daily basis. One 15-barge tow can keep 1,050 trucks off the road and more than 200 railcars off the railroads. This helps relieve congestion by removing the amount of trucks on the road as well as reducing the number of railcars that could block heavy traffic areas. Without barges or the inland river system, our traffic would be much more congested.
Fewer Emissions
By taking a large number of trucks and railcars off the roads and railways, fewer emissions make their way into the air. Plus, in general, barging generates fewer carbon dioxide emissions than rail of truck. For instance, the 2014 Waterway Report states moving an identical amount of cargo by rail creates 30% more CO2 emissions, and moving an identical amount of cargo by truck creates 1000% more CO2 emissions.
Jobs
The inland river waterways provide a large number of jobs. Farmers, utility workers, port crews, and tugboat crews are just a few of the jobs that are available because of the inland river system. Having jobs boosts the economy and keeps businesses afloat. In 2013, the Illinois waterways and ports accounted for 48,195 jobs. In New York, the waterways and ports were responsible for 152,025 jobs. In fact, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers, 738,000 jobs will be lost by 2020 if additional investment isn’t made to the waterway system.
Economy Boost
Thanks to the more than 620 million tons of cargo moved on the inland waterways, the US sees about $70 billion of that placed back into the economy. In fact, the waterways provided $6.4 billion to the Illinois economy alone. Without this system, the economy would lose out on a significant revenue generator.
Affordability
Using the inland river system to move products makes these items more affordable. For instance, one barge can offset up to 70 truckloads of construction material, which is way more cost-effective for companies who source construction materials. The same is true for other industries as well.
The inland river system is a valuable asset that offers plenty of benefits. If you are interested in shipping your materials via the inland river system, contact us today.
