Could you live car-free for a month? Residents in Pittsburgh have been challenged by Zipcar to test drive a low-car lifestyle in July by participating in its car sharing program.
Living a car-free or low-car lifestyle has economic, environmental and even health benefits. In addition to saving money on gas and reducing the carbon emissions from your car, walking instead of driving can also have considerable health benefits. Find out how many calories you burn, how much money you save and how much carbon emissions you reduce by going car-free with the car-free diet calculator.
With our current economic situation and the increasing emphasis on the environment and our personal health, giving up your car may not be as intimidating as it sounds. Our love for driving has made us forget about other forms of transportation such as walking, biking, public transit and even car sharing.
For people living in large metropolitan areas or close to public transportation, living without a car may be easier than you think. However, even if you live in the suburbs, away from public transportation, there are many ways you can reduce the amount of time you use your car and help you body and the environment too. Just remember, like any type of diet, the low-car/car-free diet requires some getting used to. But maintain a strong willpower to stick to your low-car diet and your wallet and the environment will thank you.
Here are 5 ways to start and maintain a low-car diet.
1. Skip the Gym
Why waste gas and drive to your local gym when you can just as easily go for a run outside? Instead of hitting the treadmills after work, consider exercising outdoors and enjoying the fresh summer air. There are many natural substitutes for the exercise you do indoors. Instead of driving to the gym for the ellipticals, you could run up and down the stairs instead. This way, you save money while keeping in shape.
2. Minimize Driving Trips
Instead of driving to multiple grocery stores, try shopping at just one or shopping at several within walking distance of each other. This way, you only have to drive your car to one location and you’ll get a nice walk into your day as well.
3. Take a Staycation
This year, many people are opting to enjoy time off from work in the comfort of their own homes. While road trips are certainly fun, you can still create lasting memories on a staycation at home without spending nearly as much money. Try exploring a local bike path you’ve never been to or try a new type of cuisine at a neighborhood restaurant. You may find that sometimes the best vacations are when you are relaxing at home.
4. Get Your Friends Involved
The best way to maintain a low-car/car-free diet is to get your friends involved. If your friends are not driving either, you may not want to drive as much. If you need an extra push, read the car-free diet blog, hosted by the sponsors of Arlington Virginia’s car-free diet initiative.
5. Take Public Transportation
You’re already paying for public transportation with your taxes so why not use it? Public transportation is the most convenient and probably the cheapest way to get around, especially if you live in a large metropolitan city. Even if it takes a little longer than driving, you can use the extra time on the bus or train to start a good book or catch up on some work.
