In 2003 the U.S. Department of Transportation reported that Americans took 1.1 billion trips per day. They also reported that 78% of these were in single occupant vehicles. It is estimated that motor vehicles account for roughly 50% of urban air pollution and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. All contributing to climate change, air pollution, and disease. In our personal consulting practice, we are often approached by clients requesting resources and guidance to incorporate sustainability concepts into their daily living. For most, this desire is sparked by a growth in eco awareness and an interest in saving money. Transportation is an area that addresses both.
Following is guidance we've offered our clients to reduce costs, reduce emissions, and help live a sustainable lifestyle.
Increase your fuel economy:
- If you don't know, find out what mileage your current vehicle gets by visiting the EPA's Green Vehicle Guide.
- Buy a green car
- Check out Smartcars
- Upgrade to a hybrid
- Learn more about biodiesel
Maintenance:
- Keep your tires properly inflated
- Don't haul around unnecessary weight
- Get a tune-up
- Be an Eco Driver using EcoDriving Best Practices
- Minimizing aggressive acceleration and braking
- Don't idle your engine
Consider other transportation:
- Mass transportation: bus/ train
- RideShare Company for Car and Van pooling
- Car sharing Programs like ZipCar
- Ride a bike
- Walk
Other ideas:
Get rid of your call all together. Donate it to charity
Purchase carbon offsets from Terrapass to offset your emissions
The most environmental impactful areas of our lives are those that we do by habit. Replacing current behavior with eco friendly alternatives is a place to start. Regarding transpiration, changing what you drive and how you drive it can save money and reduce carbon emissions.

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