Transportation

There are many things you can do to reduce carbon dioxide when you travel.

• Replace Car Use with walking or biking or public transportation one day per week. You can credit 1 pound of CO2 reduction per 1 mile of walking or biking. In addition, maintaining an active, fulfilling lifestyle can help lower blood pressure and blood-sugar levels.
• Consider bicycling for some trips.  There are zero carbon emissions, it's good for your health, it saves money, and it may get you there faster than a car in rush hour traffic. See the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition for more tips.
• Take public transit.  There are fewer carbon emissions than individual cars and riding on the T, train, or bus can given you time for reading or catching up on work.
• When you need to drive, take these steps:
• Drive more slowly.
• Combine car trips for shopping and errands.
• Carpool whenever possible.
• Turn off your car's engine if idling for more than 10 seconds.  Did you know it's the law in Massachusetts to turn off your engine if you idle for 5 minutes or longer (with some exceptions for "necessary" idling)?
• Rid your car of unnecessary pounds you are carrying.
• Have your car serviced regularly.
• Inflate your tires to the pressure that is printed on them.
• If you are in the market to buy a new car, consider a hybrid.
• If you need to fly, consider purchasing carbon offsets for the miles you will travel.