When it comes to commuting by car, burning gas can be damaging to the environment and your wallet. The good news is that there are a number of options to reduce the financial and environmental impact of your commute.
The Carbon Footprint Calculator allows you to enter information about your home, electricity use, commute method, and more to estimate your impact on the environment and identify ways to reduce your emissions.
If you normally drive alone to work, you may be surprised to find that the carbon emissions from your commute make up the largest percentage of your footprint.
There are a variety of transportation options to help you reduce your impact. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best, and how they minimize your footprint.
- Metrorail: The Metrorail system runs on electricity, making it significantly cleaner than driving a fossil fuel-powered car. According to WMATA, traveling by Metro results in 46% fewer greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per mile than driving a single-occupant vehicle. Read more about Metro’s CO2 emissions.
- Carpool/Vanpool: While this method still involves driving a car or van, you can reduce your impact by allowing the carbon footprint of your commute to be spread among the riders. The more people that can be transported using one vehicle, the more sustainable the commute. Find a carpool match.
- Walking/Biking: Walking or riding a bicycle are the cleanest options available to get around. Harnessing the energy of the human body rather than energy from fossil fuels is the most sustainable commute option that we already possess.
The Scotts RunConnect is here to provide you with information and resources to improve your commute.