What You Can Do About Climate Change — Transportation
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The transportation sector is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. You can make a difference by reducing the environmental impact of fuel emissions. Focus on greener transportation options and fuel efficiency.
Use Greener Transportation
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Continue to use greener transportation. Depending on where you live, you may have different options. When possible, consider the following options which can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions:
- Public transportation (like buses, trains, and rapid transit)
- Biking
- Walking
- Carpooling
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Check to see if your employer offers commuter benefits for public transportation or carpooling. Businesses can also use the Smart Location Calculator to consider workplace locations that reduce employees’ commuting time.
Focus on Efficiency
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Make fewer trips. Activities such as grouping errands to make fewer trips and teleworking, if available, minimizes fuel use, saving money and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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Drive smart. Improve your fuel economy by going easy on the brakes and gas, using cruise control, and keeping your car well-maintained.
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When it comes time to switch to a new vehicle, look for fuel efficiency and electric options to save money and reduce emissions:
- Choose an energy-efficient vehicle by looking for models with higher miles per gallon. You can find information on the cleanest, most fuel-efficient vehicles in EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide.
- Switch to an electric vehicle. Plug-in electric vehicles typically produce less greenhouse gas emissions than an average new gasoline-powered car. Use the Beyond Tailpipe Emissions Calculator to see the emissions savings from driving an electric vehicle in your region. Check out Electric Vehicle credits programs.
- Choose an energy-saving electric vehicle charger. Check out EPA's ENERGY STAR electric vehicle page to learn about ENERGY STAR electric vehicle chargers and incentives for electric and plug-in vehicles.