Public transport offers shared services like buses, trains, trams, and ferries, typically operating on fixed routes and schedules with set fares for the general public. Its origins are ancient, dating back to ferry services in Greek mythology and canal transport, with China's Grand Canal used as early as 486 BCE, eventually evolving to include horse-drawn stagecoaches and the first organized urban bus systems. Globally, public transit models vary significantly; Japan's systems are often run by profit-driven private conglomerates, while North America primarily uses municipal authorities, and Europe features a mix of state and private companies.
In recent years, many high-wealth cities, including London and Toronto, have experienced a decline in usage due to factors like remote work and the rise of ride-sharing services, prompting interventions such as fare reductions. Despite these challenges, public transport remains a crucial element in climate change mitigation, with experts advocating for increased investment due to its significantly lower emissions compared to private vehicles.