Day Two: Carpool, Take Public Transit, Bike, or EBike to work
There are many transportation options that will help you cut down on the amount of CO2 emissions produced on your daily commute to and from work.
These options don't start and end with buying a Hybrid or Electric Vehicle, and in fact are easy and affordable commute options. By becoming an ecologically conscious commuter you not only reduce vehical emitting pollutants you also cut down on gas and insurance costs and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Carpool
Carpooling is made easy with programs such as Smart Commute, a program throughout the GTA that finds locals close to where you live that commute near where you work that you can carpool with. Their goal is to ease gridlock, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while making your commute less expensive and more enjoyable. In just five years Smart Commute Carpooling has saved over ten million dollars and prevented 24,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.
Public Transit
Taking the bus or train to work, drastically reduces the environmental impacts and costs that are caused by regular motorized vehicles. A study commissioned by the Federal Government shows it would cost Canadians 50 percent more to meet new travel demands by car than it would by public transit. These social costs reflect the impact of growing passenger travel on congestion, road safety and the environment. Strong transit is vital to "smart growth" strategies that help our cities reduce the cost and undesirable impacts of urban sprawl. Transit reduces the amount of green space that must be paved over for new roads and parking lots. It also makes cities cleaner, quieter, safer and more convenient for getting around. (Canadian Urban Transit Associated, 2009)
Bicycle
Bicycling to work is a great option for those that are close enough to their office. Most offices should have locations situated around the building where you can lock up your bike and keep it safe while you work. Biking to work isnt just good for your health and the health of the environment, it can also save you a fair bit of money. Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine can calculate how much you save per day by bicylcing to work.
Kiplinger Article: How Much Can I Save Bicycling to Work?
Electric Options
Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters are an enjoyable and environmentally conscious alternative to driving. Electric bikes and scooters can go approximately 40-50km on one charge, and cost on average between $1000 to $2800 in Ontario. These vehicles are ideal for those close enough to their workplace to ride but would like the assistance that an electric bike or scooter offer.