Green Progress: How Biking, Walking, and Public Transit Change Our Way To Move

The demand for mobility in Europe and America is increasing by leaps and bounds. The intensive use of vehicles leads to growing greenhouse gas releases, which in turn entails irreversible climate change. Modern technologies have made it possible to introduce e-scooters into the life of urban residents as one of the most comfy and fastest modes to get around the city. However, given the data of the European Environment Agency (EEA), strolling, cycling, and mass transit continue to be the best course for improvement of sustainable mobility in the metropolis. Active transportation supersedes motor vehicle miles traveled and helps to diminish releases, overcome the first- and last-mile gap, and strengthen public health. And what about the modification of freight transportation within the city? The innovation in the form of delivery drones will speed up the process of “planting greenery” in populated areas. 

How to Achieve the Global Green Goal?

A global approach to bring down oil usage and boost the productivity of transport systems can be implemented by providing the population with more energy-competent options for short urban trips. The trends are such that Americans are actively looking for ways to reduce the time spent behind the wheel to a minimum. Public transit options, strolling, and biking prioritize health, and preserve your money and, in many cases, time. Mass transit passengers on average use up half as much gasoline per individual as those without sound access to public transportation options. Replacing a personal car with public transport contributes to lowering annual greenhouse gas releases by more than 16 million metric tons. According to traffic police statistics, the death rate for private car passengers is almost six times higher than that for bus occupants. It arises from several factors, including the professionalism and experience of public transit drivers, responsibility, compliance with the rules and speed limits, the behavior of other traffic participants about public buses on the road, etc.

Best Ways to Make Personal Trips and Commuting Greener

Statistically, one out of every two personal trips is up to two miles away, setting the stage for increasing cycling as one of the most practical, clean, and economical health-conscious means of transportation. Eco-friendly commuting is another strategy for decreasing traffic jams and emissions, as well as enhancing air quality. Short start or end trips are an inseparable side of the daily commute. As a rule, bus and subway options cover the bulk of journeys to and from work, but citizens still need to first go on foot, drive, or choose another mode to reach the nearest station or stop. Enhancing first- or last-mile trips could lower vehicle usage and decrease greenhouse releases.

Cycling and strolling are considered to be the most popular, safe, and comfy alternatives to get around. Developed and well-thought-out infrastructure in cities, such as bike lanes, sidewalks, and safe road crossing, is one of the crucial points in achieving the Green Goal.

Are All Urban Means of Travel Equally Green?

Despite the increase in green means of transport over recent years, not all mobility alternatives are equally sustainable. Rapid usage of app-based car-sharing schemes despite all the advantages, is still not as beneficial to the environment and human health as bike riding, walking, and mass transit. Frequent car rides and nerve-wracking road conditions lead to stress to which every driver is subjected to varying degrees. Ischemic heart disease and arterial hypertension can be negative consequences of driver`s stress. Furthermore, sitting behind the wheel is often the cause of trophic disorders in the lower extremities, which is effectively combated by strolling and bike riding.

Although shared e-scooters have a negligible direct influence on the environment, the significant adverse effect associated with the materials they are made from, manufacturing, and their constant collection for recharging can cast doubt on scooters’ eco-friendliness. The same goes for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft as according to research they do little to reduce emissions or road congestion.

Your Contribution to a Sustainable Future: How to Rent a Suitable Car

Most rental companies have already done an e-mobility movement by going green with their car fleets. Why rent an EV while traveling? 

• Environment-friendliness due to zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions 
• Noiselessness 

• Cost-effectiveness as EV allows to lower fuel costs by up to 80% compared to a petrol equivalent
• Maximum convenience when driving in low-emission zones without leaving the car
• Best driving experience with up-to-date technologies and enhanced safety and security features

Going on a trip, you can make your contribution to sustainable development. If you are traveling with a large group, you can use van transportation to accommodate from 7 to 15 passengers instead of renting two or three cars. If you have a lot of luggage or sports equipment, you may want to consider cargo van rental. Cargo vans like Ford Cargo E350 or Ford Ecoline 150 Commercial provide more space for groceries and baggage, leaving 2-3 places for passengers. Now some companies in the US provide sustainable commercial vans to avoid greenhouse gas emissions. Check out the best ways how to rent a cargo van in the US and all available models. When renting a cargo van you will likely be charged a rental deposit that acts as a financial guarantee of all expenses excluding vehicle damage and driver’s liability. It is time to make your step towards the Green Goal!