#10 Car Emissions

100+ways
Written By Heal The Planet

The amount of greenhouse and poisonous gases released into the atmosphere from vehicle emission is harmful to human health, and detrimental to the environment. Are you aware that nearly 28.5% of all US greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation? By sourcing alternative means of transportation, reducing the miles you drive, or purchasing a hybrid or fuel efficient vehicle – you can directly reduce your car-related greenhouse gas emissions. 

What’s all the gas about?  

Climate change threatens every aspect of life on our planet. With 77% of Americans commuting to work alone, and an additional 9% utilizing carpool or rideshare services, a tremendous amount of car GHG emissions are being pumped into the environment daily.  By lowering our transportation emissions, we can reduce the impacts of climate change. Let’s look at some additional facts on greenhouse emissions.

Facts About Car Emissions:

  • Between 1990 and 2015, emissions in the transportation sector increased more in absolute terms, than any other sector.

  • ​60% of the emissions from the transportation sector in the US come from personal vehicles. 

  • Cars and trucks release approximately 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other global-warming gases for every gallon of gas burned.

  • Approximately 333 million tons of carbon dioxide are released into the atmosphere from transportation annually.

  • Over 90% of the fuel used for transportation is petroleum based, which includes gasoline and diesel.

 

How can I make an impact?


Action 1: Global Goodness

  • Shop Local. (Support local farmers and farmers markets). Make it a weekly family event. Many markets in the U.S. have great food, music and fun vendors.  

  • Walk or ride your bike to the market (instead of driving).

  • Buy Local within the grocery store. Ask your local grocer to source more locally produced goods.

  • Eat your leftovers; it saves an enormous amount of food and is extremely cost effective.

Action 2: Planet Protector

  • All of Action 1.

  • Eat seasonally. It is more cost effective, better for the planet, and retains more nutrients.

  • Eating what grows locally and in season reduces the amount of fossil fuels needed for long distance transport.

  • Preserve food that is in season. Freezing or canning is a great way to have your favorite fruits and vegetables year round.

Action 3: Earth Angel

  • All of Actions 1 & 2.

  • Grow your own food. Most people have the space for a small garden, whether it be on your apartment balcony with potted plants, or a small raised bed in your backyard. The closer you become to the process of growing of your food, the more connected you will stay to the food you eat – and its impact on the planet.

  • Volunteer at your local organic farm and support those who support you. Pick one day a month or more, and take your friends and family out to connect with the soil.  

  • Gather community members and start a community garden or urban farm. 

  • Choose to be an Ambassador for Change, and always Spread Love and Spread Light.

 
 
Heal The Planet
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