Did you know that there are more than one billion motor vehicles in use on the world’s roads at this moment in time?(and is it just me or does it seem like half of those head for the M50 each morning?!)
Consider for a moment the harmful impact of all those nasty emissions chugging into our earth’s atmosphere day after day. Wouldn’t it be great if we could come together to give the planet a well- deserved breather from the constant stream of fumes and congestion? World Car Free Day, which takes place on 22 September, provides us with the opportunity to do just that. It aims to raise awareness of our fossil fuel consumption while also urging us to consider alternatives such as walking or using public transport when possible.
Just one litre of petrol produces a whopping 2.3 kg of CO2 which alone comprises a large slice of an individual’s carbon footprint. Though more of us are now working from home than ever before, the work commute is still a necessary part of the day for many of us. If you are still driving to work and have access to public transport, why not consider using it on the 22nd? You can pop in your head-phones, sit back and use it as an opportunity to regroup before the chaos of the working day takes over.
Those of us who no longer face the grind of a daily commute can also take stock of our car dependency this September. If it is within a reasonable distance and their little legs can handle it, why not allocate a little extra time in the morning to walking the kids to school? You may find that you begin to enjoy this newly scheduled exercise before the working day kicks off and make it a regular thing. Fitting more steps into your day has many benefits including weight loss and an improvement in mood due to all those feel good hormones being generated! You can check out the full range of pluses more walking can offer here.
Of course, you may choose to take it one step further and even try a Car Free September! Leaving the car at home may not be possible every day but even making these journeys the exception rather than the rule for the duration of the month would be an incredibly positive move for the planet (and for your health should you choose to walk instead).
Of course, it makes sense that those living in urban areas will have greater access to public transport and decent footpaths but rural dwellers can also make some small changes which can also make a real difference for the wellbeing of our planet. For instance, did you know that keeping your speed limit to 80km/hr at all times could reduce emissions by a huge 30%?! Check out the campaign at www.80max.ie to learn more.