Our car in a way is our second set of feet. We’ve become accustomed to using it for everything whether it’s to go to school, work or simply hanging out with our friend. Without a car, we don’t how we’d function. But what if we tried to change this everyday activity and tried a new alternative? Not only would our wallets appreciate it, but Mother Nature would be really proud of us. What exactly is the goal we’re trying to achieve you ask? Not use our car for a day, specifically on September 22, which is known as World Car Free Day. On this day, let’s find different ways to get around without the use of a car. The ultimate goal is to depend less on our car, thus making our lives greener.
Take a stroll through the neighborhood
Walking is part of our everyday routine. We walk to our dumpster to throw away our trash, but we never try to walk that extra step to the tiny mom and pop restaurant right around the corner. This car free day take a walk through your neighborhood to discover new places. When we’re driving, we don’t pay much attention to the businesses in our community because we’re too busy concentrating on the road. Take this time to really enjoy your surroundings. You might just find a new coffee shop to rave to your friends about. It may be way better than the chain coffee store you and your friends hang out at.
Ride your bike
Many of us live relatively close to our work or school, so riding our bike shouldn’t be much of a problem. Feel the wind rushing through your face as you ride your bike or even pretend to be Jason from E.T. to make this fantasy more of a joyride. The amazing part of riding is that you won’t waste money on gas and you’ll get a great workout out of it. You’ll be environmentally and healthy conscious by the time you arrive to your destination.
Some cities have created a special bike path for cyclists to ensure safety. The Los Angeles Metro Orange Line has a bike path next to its bus road. The path extends from North Hollywood to Chatsworth allowing cyclists to ride from one end of the San Fernando Valley to the other.
(Important: Have fun riding your bike, but remember to wear a helmet and be safe at all times. Add elbow and knee pads for the extra security. Also, don’t forget to lock your bike after riding it.)
Tour town on the bus
Even though it’s Car Free Day, we can’t just get rid of this special mode of transportation. Riding the bus is a convenient and green way to get around town, especially when you have to travel far. It gives you the benefits of a car such as air conditioning without having to spend as much on gas. Many universities offer free or reduced price bus passes to their students to promote a greener transit. Take advantage of your bus pass by visiting places such as the beach or museum.