Transport

Diana

emissions are increasingly affecting global temperatures, causing the sea levels to rise, gradually killing fauna and flora both in the ocean and on land. On a smaller scale, human health is affected by this increase in temperature. Diseases such as asthma, pulmonary and other types of cancer, and even acne are caused by it. These are just a few of the reasons why we need to begin putting more effort into reducing CO2 emissions. The goal is to reduce emissions, not to eradicate them completely – this would be an unreal and unachievable target. We need to focus on what we can do, and not on finding more reasons to do nothing as a result of aiming too high.

All the following options significantly reduce carbon emissions, and are incredibly eco-friendly, so I will not repeat this essential argument for each.

Urban: Alternatives

• Using the subway, bus or tram: much cheaper than a car, accessible, financially benefits communities, reduces traffic, frees up time for other activities than focusing on driving, increases fuel efficiency, encourages healthier habits thanks to not relying on the comfort of a car, safer.

• Riding a bicycle: cheap, low maintenance, can cut through traffic, no parking problems, individual, stress reliever, great exercise, mentally relaxing, reduces noise pollution • Walking for short distances: reduces the risk for a lot of diseases (cardiovascular, pulmonary), improves cholesterol levels, builds stronger bones and muscles, reduces body fat, can be turned into a social activity, helps practise patience.

Extra-urban: Alternatives

• Going by train: more space, more comfort, safer, reduces the amount of traffic, you can pass time differently than when driving, sightseeing,

can be cheaper. • Going by bus or coach: much cheaper than flying, you can enjoy the sights when you don’t have to focus on driving, safer because the driver knows the roads and is a professional in his or her job. • Riding a bicycle: for long distances this requires a bit of practice, but the bicycle can be taken by train, which reduces the distances to be ridden.

Cars:

A car should only be used for transport of too-heavy-to-carry-another-way materials. If a car is necessary, you can try: • Sharing the car with a community: decreases the costs, builds up stronger communities and reduces the amount of resources needed to maintain driving as a habit (fewer cars, less resources). • Apps that allow you to pick up people for a small fee, or to get picked up by cars on a common route. This reduces traffic, helps maximize the energy and fuel efficiency of the trip, is cheaper, and is a good opportunity for socializing. Examples: Blabla car, taxi company apps As far as possible, avoid using the most comfortable option without good reason. An aeroplane should be the last option (for extra-long distances or if you are really short of time). Otherwise it is better not to use one. The engines of a plane produce incredible amounts of heat, noise, particles and gases (like CO2, water vapor, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, lead and black carbon, which pollute the atmosphere. This choice is beneficial not only for the environment, but for you. By choosing the train or a coach, you can enjoy the view and connect with the people around you. Find out their stories! 15

15 www.nationalexpresstransit.com/blog/9-benefits-of-public-transportation www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/walking-for-good-health www.russiantrains.com/en/blog/advantages-traveling-train www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_aviation