You may not realize it, but how you get around can significantly impact the environment. For example, the transportation sector is responsible for a significant portion of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. So if people reduce their carbon footprint and slow the effects of climate change, everyone needs to start finding more sustainable ways to get from Point A to Point B.
Fortunately, several options are available for those looking to be more eco-friendly in their transportation choices. Read on to learn more about some of the most popular sustainable transportation methods and how you can incorporate them into your daily life.
Public Transportation
Take advantage of public transit options like buses, trains, and subways whenever possible. Not only does this help reduce traffic congestion and save you money on gas, but it also cuts down on emissions. According to studies, taking public transit instead of driving can reduce an individual’s carbon footprint by 4,800 pounds per year.
If you don’t live in an area with access to public transit or need to travel outside the city for work or pleasure, consider carpooling or hitchhiking. When multiple people share a ride, it reduces emissions (not to mention traffic). If carpooling isn’t an option, try renting a hybrid or electric vehicle the next time you need a car. These vehicles have significantly lower emissions than traditional gasoline cars.
Biking or Walking
Whenever possible, opt for active transportation like biking or walking. Not only is this good for your health, but it’s also good for the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, walking or biking just one mile instead of driving can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by almost one pound!
Of course, biking or walking isn’t always practical, depending on your destination and the weather conditions. If that’s the case, consider investing in an electric scooter or bike. These battery-powered vehicles produce zero emissions and can help you avoid traffic while getting some fresh air simultaneously.
Ridesharing Services
If you must drive, there are still ways you can be more sustainable. For example, take advantage of ridesharing services when possible. Instead of each person in your group taking their car, request a ride from Uber or Lyft. This will save you money and reduce emissions since you’ll be sharing a ride with other people going in the same direction.
Of course, ridesharing isn’t always practicable, especially if you’re traveling outside a major city or need a car for an extended period of time. In those cases, try renting a hybrid or electric car instead of a traditional gasoline car. These vehicles have significantly lower emissions than their gasoline counterparts and can help you do your part to protect the environment.
Technology
If you love driving and can’t see yourself utilizing the options above, you should consider installing technology in your vehicles. Many apps available will tell you how to operate more efficiently. If used correctly, these apps can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on gas at the same time.
You can also use GPS to find the best route to your destination and avoid traffic. This will help decrease travel time and emissions by helping you find the most efficient way possible.
Increase Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is crucial if you want to drive more sustainably. Fortunately, you can do several simple things to increase fuel mileage and reduce emissions. Here are some ways you can do that.
Fuel Conditioners
Using some fuel conditioners is a great way to increase your fuel efficiency. It can even be used for trucks in trucking businesses. There’s a diesel fuel conditioner available that can help improve combustion and reduce friction in the engine. They’re great for long-haul transportation services if they want to reduce their carbon emission rates drastically. These conditioners clean the fuel as it burns, making the engine run more efficiently, helping people save money, and reducing their overall carbon emissions.
Low-Weight Accessories
Another easy way to increase your fuel mileage is by removing unneeded vehicle accessories. These items can include roof racks, extra seats in trucks and SUVs, and much more. They might seem harmless, but they add tremendous weight to your vehicle, reducing mileage and increasing emissions. This is also great for any businesses that want to save on fuel.
Maintenance
Another simple way to increase fuel mileage is by maintaining your vehicle correctly. This includes checking and replacing air filters, and spark plugs, flushing out dirty transmission fluid, and more.
The transportation sector is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions—but there are steps we can all take to be more sustainable in our transportation choices. By following the options above, people can drastically reduce carbon emissions in the country. So next time you plan a trip, consider leaving the car at home in favor of a more sustainable option!
