Drive Less / Walk More
Summary: Walk More: Drive Less
Description
Make a commitment to walk on a regular errand each week. Take your child to and from school, meet with friends, mail a package, and grocery shop--start with one and increase the number of carless errands over time. You also help keep Williamstown businesses vibrant by walking to the local stores and restaurants in your neighborhood. Apps such as Google Maps can make it easy by finding the best walking or biking routes and trip times.
The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, and walking and biking are both considered moderate exercise. Good for the environment and good for your health.
Below are studies on transportation and climate change:
Driving is more expensive than you think (Harvard Gazette)
Commission on the Future of Transportation in Massachusetts 2020 Report (State of Massachusetts)
Transportation and Climate Initiative (Transportation for Massachusetts)
Transportation & Air Quality (State of Massachusetts)
Deep Dive
Steps to Take
Follow these sustainable practices:
- Commit to running errands on foot at least once a week. Support local businesses.
- Replace a drive to the gym with a walk around the neighborhood.
- Walk your children to school regularly. Walking to school not only improves children's physical health, it improves their ability to concentrate.
- Park once, shop twice. Are two places you want to visit within a short walk? Park at one and walk to the other.
- Think before you drive. Could you walk instead?
- Be an advocate for walkable cities, so roads and walkways can be designed to be safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
Walking resources:
- All Actions