Here’s a list of things you can do to help clean up our air:
Trip chain more often. It's easy! Chances are, you're already doing it, combining your errands into one trip. It helps you get things done, and it helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. When you first start a car after it has been sitting for more than an hour, it pollutes up to five times more than when the engine's warm.
Take the bus or car pool. Even if you do it just once or twice a week, you'll reduce traffic congestion and pollution and save money. The average driver spends about 56 cents per mile including ownership and maintenance. The Valley has an expanding bus system as well as a light rail system scheduled to come on line in late 2008. You can visit Valley Metro’s Web site for bus schedules and maps by clicking here. Plan a trip online by clicking here. Valley Metro has developed a service to help find a carpool partner that lives near you and works in the same general area that you work. Just go to ShareTheRide.com, fill out the online form and wait to hear from any interested carpool partners.
Have fun! Ride your bike or take a walk. It's a great way to travel, and it can help you and the air get into condition. Vehicles on the road create more than 25 percent of all air pollution nationwide. For short trips to work or short trips like local shopping or going to school, biking or walking may make great sense. Take a look at Glendale’s Bike Maps for existing and planned bikeways by clicking here. Not only will you eliminate an auto trip, but you’ll also be adding to the 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise health experts recommend. You can also look for Bike Buddies (commuter cyclists) at ShareTheRide.com or get more biking and walking nformation at Valley Metro’s Web site.
Care for your car. Regular maintenance and tune-ups, changing the oil and checking tire inflation can improve gas mileage, extend your car's life and increase its resale value. It can also reduce traffic congestion due to preventable breakdowns, and it could reduce your car's emissions by more than half.
Get fuel when it's cool. Refueling during cooler periods of the day or in the evening can prevent gas fumes from heating up and creating ozone. And that can help reduce ozone alert days.
Don't top off the tank. It releases gas fumes into the air and cancels the benefits of the pump's anti-pollution devices. So stopping short of a full tank is safer and reduces pollution.
Telecommute. Work at home sometimes. You'll save time and money and reduce emissions and traffic congestion. Go to Valley Metro’s Web site to get some valuable information about the benefits of working from home.
Know before you go. The Arizona Department of Transportation has a Web site where you can check traffic conditions on the Valley’s freeways. Click hereto visit it now. Or, click here to get information about roadway conditions throughout the state. Get travel and transit updates before you leave home and you won't get stuck in a jam.
Spread the word. If everyone took just a few of these simple, easy steps, it could make a big difference.
