People worldwide, across all demographics, are feeling the threat of climate change, which brings about more frequent and intense droughts, heat waves, and storms, destroying their places and wreaking havoc on their communities. North America is the only continent where the concern about the environment has decreased despite rising concerns from the youth. From the cars we choose to drive to the routes we take, every decision is a climate decision – whether we recognize it or not. The planet will continue to orbit the sun for millions of years after we’re gone, but what will the world be like for future generations?
Even if the number of commuting trips has decreased due to the increased share of telecommuting, it doesn’t necessarily mean more bike trips are made overall. Unfortunately, the use of vehicles is higher than ever, so it’s safe to say we have a severe car addiction. Breaking the habit of getting into your car every morning is extremely difficult but not impossible, so do your best to make your commute healthier, more affordable, and, above all, better for the environment.
Beyond The Strain in Your Personal Life, Commuting Pumps CO2 Into the Atmosphere
Commuters are more likely to be anxious and unhappy and feel that their daily activities lack meaning. So, do you recognize yourself in the description? If you commute more than 35 minutes a day, you’re at a greater risk of burnout due to the stress of leaving/arriving on time and being stuck in traffic jams. Driving to work takes a toll on your mental health and pumps excessive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which means the planet is slowly but surely warming up. Greening your commuting isn’t as complicated as you think and can help your wallet, so take a big step towards a more sustainable future.
Driving is the worst commute, so leave your car at home and find new ways to get around – it’ll help you feel better, save money on gas and parking, and reduce your carbon footprint. By ditching your motor and choosing to talk or cycle instead, whether for your daily commute or a trip nearby, you maintain a healthier lifestyle as you get moderate and intense physical activity. Equally, you’ll reduce the NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) in your area, one of the most widespread air pollutants. Cycling is a clean form of transportation that helps your community breathe better.
If You’re Ready to Do Your Bit in Making Your Commute Greener, Here Are Some Suggestions
Incorporate A Bike Commute into Your Routine
If where you live and where you work aren’t too far apart, the decision to cycle can contribute to the fight against global warming, not to mention that it fosters cardiovascular fitness, improves muscle strength and flexibility, and boosts mental health via stress reduction. Opt for an ebike if you have a longer commute or encounter hilly terrains, as it offers enough power to keep you pedaling smoothly and efficiently. Please visit https://upway.co/, and if you find one that suits you, don’t hesitate to invest in yourself. An electric bike is a great way to get around that’s affordable, easy, and environmentally friendly.
Take into account factors like durability, comfort, and your commuting needs when trying to find a suitable bicycle. If your commute consists of paved roads where people are most likely to be walking, or maybe your commute to work is way too long, a road ebike is perfect. You’re free to control the amount of effort you want to exert. Plus, you can swap out the handlebar for a shorter one to be more comfortable and enjoy long rides without unnecessary pain. Before heading out, ensure the tires are properly inflated, the brakes are fine, and the lights are working.
Take The Bus or Use Other Forms of Public Transport
Switching from a personal car to public transport helps save the planet because buses, ferries, trains, and so on use less energy and emit fewer greenhouse gas emissions per passenger mile than private vehicles. It’s not enough to decarbonize cars, as technological change takes time. Active mobility is needed right now, so demonstrate support for public transportation. When planning your journey, there are apps that tell you everything you need to know, like Moovit, that ensure a seamless experience to your destination. Needless to say, you should avoid displaying expensive-looking watches, rings, necklaces, or other jewelry.
Also Read: Drive Happy: The Essential Guide to Finding Your Ideal Car
Share Your Car to Accommodate More Than One Person
Contrary to popular opinion, carpooling isn’t dead, so people commute with co-workers who have the same journey to cut the costs (and emissions) by half. This apparently simple change can reduce your overall carbon footprint. Even if you can’t be blamed for global rising temperatures, you’ll want to feel like you’re doing something, no matter how small, to prevent the worst-case scenario. Carpooling with peers translates into fewer cars on the road, which leads to less smog and levels of noise pollution, improving the quality of life in urban centers. Issues like feelings about the radio, conversation, smoking, etc., can be settled on the spot.
When dividing the costs of the carpool, bear in mind there are more expenses than just the gas, such as tolls, parking, oils, service, and wear and tear. Discuss the total costs and, most importantly, the division of expenses with the group. Equally important is to have a backup plan in the event of an illness or mechanical issues because carpooling isn’t just about sharing rides. It’s about stepping up. Have a protocol for unexpected illnesses or other problems so that your co-workers can ensure timely arrival to work because emergencies happen when they’re least expected.
