Businesses have become more conscious of the amount of energy that they are using with the rise of energy tariffs and government policies for companies to become more energy-efficient in the UK. This includes transportation, whether driving to work or using public transport, as these practices also have an effect on energy consumption.
Car manufacturers have looked at finding ways to help conserve energy usage while still providing a car that works just the same, hence the electric car lease being introduced to make sure that drivers are also doing their part to help bring down their carbon footprint and other greenhouse gas emissions.
What Is Alternative Transportation?
Alternative transport is using other methods of transport that aren’t only petrol-based cars. Examples of these alternative methods of transportation are electric cars, public transport, car-sharing, biking, and walking.
This is a green alternative that helps cut down on the amount of greenhouse gas released by cars that run on gasoline.
Why is Driving Considered Unhealthy?
Source: carmagazine.co.uk
Cars get us where we need to be quick. They have been modified to include excellent features such as air conditioning, a spacious interior, and the ability to reach higher speeds than others. But unfortunately, these same cars also produce a large number of harmful emissions, including carbon dioxide and other gases that contribute to global warming
However, although these features are attractive, cars also have a negative impact on both the environment and our health. Driving can be a stressful part of our lives, especially with so many people on the road causing traffic delays and having to deal with other drivers who drive recklessly.
Sitting for long periods of time and having to deal with the same kind of stress can lead to chronic stress conditions, which can lead to other health complications and diseases. As a result of this stress, while driving, the body responds with a flight-or-fight response when confronted with situations that can be overly stressful and even dangerous.
Using cars also releases carbon and other damaging fumes that pollute the air, causing people to become sick, particularly those who spend most of their time commuting and stuck in their cars, inhaling polluted air twice a day.
Changing to a green alternative not only cuts the pollution released into the air but also helps to conserve the environment.
It will also start encourage people to start living sustainable lives.
Green Alternatives ─ Options for Drivers
For drivers who are more environmentally conscious, there are other ways to commute instead of driving their own petrol car. By opting for public transportation, ridesharing, or electric cars, drivers can still get where they need to go without creating too much environmental pollution
Bus
Taking the bus is an alternative mode of transportation, and it is not only cost-effective for your pocket.
They also use less fuel per person and aren’t stuck in traffic as much as people with cars. Having the advantage of being in a bus lane. Bus routes can be found all over the city, so there is always a bus going the same route as you.
Walking
Source: brainworldmagazine.com
Walking can be effective for both the environment and your health. Walking counts as a form of exercise, and you don’t release as much carbon into the air as you would when driving a car. Furthermore, walking is one of the most economical forms of transportation, as it requires no fuel or tickets
Also, if you consider how much driving you do on a daily basis, you may be surprised to discover that some distances are short and can be easily walked rather than taking your car and wasting gasoline.
Biking
Using a bicycle is another alternative when looking for a green mode of transport. These are easier to use, maintain, and purchase than cars and can be used for those distances that are too far to walk. Bicycles don’t produce any emissions and are generally good exercise as well
They are also great for the environment as they do not release any gas into the air, so they do not cause any pollution.
Train
Trains are another alternative mode of transportation when it comes to not using cars. They are not only energy-efficient but also use less fuel per person, and they have the capacity to take on more passengers than buses. Trains are a great way to reduce emissions and fuel consumption while still providing an efficient and comfortable mode of transportation for people
This means fewer cars will be driving when people switch to using the train.
Carpooling or vehicle sharing
Sharing a car with other people who are at your work or going in the same direction is another effective way to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
This is another cost-effective solution, as you can share the cost of fuel and there is one less car on the road releasing carbon that causes pollution.
Alternative Fuel Vehicle
Source: canadianautodealer.ca
These vehicles run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or renewable fuels such as ethanol (plant-based fuel) or biodiesel (vegetable oil and animal fat).
Another green alternative vehicle is a car that uses hydrogen-powered cells, known as “green energy,” which releases no air pollution at all.
Hybrid Vehicles
A hybrid vehicle has both a petrol engine and an electric motor that runs on batteries, which also store power. Combining the two types of power allows for increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
This is convenient, as the driver can make the switch between the two without having to change cars.
Electric Vehicles
Although these vehicles use electricity, not all energy sources are made from fossil fuels, so the pollutants released into the air are far less than driving a traditional car.
Conclusion
There are many green alternatives to driving non-traditional cars like the ones listed above. With renewable energy slowly becoming the go-to resource, there are a variety of options to choose from.
These can help drivers achieve their goals of helping curb pollution and reduce the negative effects of climate change. Choose the alternative transportation method that is best suited to your commuting needs while saving yourself both time and money.
