Super Eco

Photo credit: ubrayj02 on flickr

"The issue of climate change is one that we ignore at our own peril. There may still be disputes about exactly how much we're contributing to the warming of the earth's atmosphere and how much is naturally occurring, but what we can be scientifically certain of is that our continued use of fossil fuels is pushing us to a point of no return. And unless we free ourselves from a dependence on these fossil fuels and chart a new course on energy in this country, we are condemning future generations to global catastrophe." Barack Obama

There is no doubt that a world with less cars would make it a whole lot easier to breathe.

One of the biggest challenges of living an environmentally friendly life is finding reliable green transportation. Employing a low car diet would certainly have many health benefits for Mother Earth and for us. As hard as it may be to imagine, there are many totally realistic options--especially in urban areas--to a high car diet. Lowering our carbon footprint by consuming less fossil fuel can be viable, everyday form of eco-activism.

Here are a few ideas about how to consume less fossil fuel:

1. Get bicycle trailers for your family bikes, these trailers are sophisticated and specific to a variety of hauling tasks. Bicycling is the greenest way to get around on wheels and the possibilities for adapting it as a viable mode of family transport are astonishing. Bicycle for a day, a week, a month, or a year, you can even tote along the family pets!
2. Think about a Zip Car rental for those occasions where a a car is needed, with a rental you can enjoy the benefits of a car without the hassle of ownership.
3. Take advantage of the public transportation options such as Heavy rail, Light rail, Trolley bus or Commuter bus lines in your area to get to and from work or play.
4. Consider downsizing to an electric Scooter or Motorcycle as your major mode of transport.
5. Walk whenever possible, it is good for the planet and you! Shanks mare, where we employ the "horse of ten toes", is really the most green way to get around!
6. Use carpooling as a way to save on time/energy and at the same time build a sense of community.
7. Plan your next trip or vacation using the public transit system.

If you think that going car free is impossible with a family, here is a wonderfully inspiring family who did just that!

Get inspired, get creative, get energized and go, go, go green!