Among the many benefits of travel reduction, one of the biggest is the positive impact on air quality and the environment.
Of the top ways to make a positive change, a recent study by the World Resources Institute (WRI) noted that six transportation changes were among the top 11 things people can do to help the environment.
“WRI research shows that shifting a few key behaviors can significantly reduce emissions and climate impacts,” wrote Mindy Hernandez on wri.org. “And the more people who act, the bigger the collective change. The trick is knowing where to prioritize our efforts.”
The top two most impactful changes were transportation related. Going car free was the top change, reducing CO2 emissions by over two tons per person, per year. Going completely car free is not an option for many, but even reducing car trips can make a difference.
“Shifting as many (car) trips as possible to walking, biking or public transit, also cuts emissions,” noted Hernandez.
In fact, walking, biking or using transit more was the No. 6 six choice, with switching from gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles was the No. 4 overall choice, saving 1.12 tons of CO2 per year.
Carpooling and telecommuting were ranked Nos. 10 and 11, each reducing CO2 emissions by an average of 1,000 pounds a year.
Pima Association of Governments’ Travel Reduction provides area employers with resources and tools to encourage employees to rideshare or use other modes of transportation to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
Carpooling and vanpooling are great options to share the ride. Transit services and active transportation, such as cycling or walking, are alternative transportation choices for shorter commutes that will help reduce traffic congestion, energy consumption and pollution.
Visit https://pagregion.com/mobility/commuter-services-and-mode-choices/transportation-mode-choices/alternative-modes-of-travel/ to learn more about alternative modes of transportation, which not only benefit air quality, but also benefit employers and employees. The final transportation method does not fall under the travel reduction program but can have a huge impact. Reducing airline travel finished No. 2 behind going car free.