Reducing our reliance on fossil fuels for transport
Use public transport
Public transport is a more environmentally friendly way of travelling.
It reduces the number of cars on the road and therefore the number of cars releasing emissions.
Most buses run on fossil fuels, but when they carry more passengers in one go, they produce less emissions per person.
Trains produce less carbon per person too.
Some trains run on electricity, which can be generated from renewable energy without releasing carbon emission.
Walking, bikes and scooters
If you are taking a short journey, to school for example, why not walk, cycle or use a scooter?
Bikes and scooters are powered by people.
We get our energy from food, not fossil fuels.
These ways of travelling, including walking, are the least harmful for the environment because they produce the least carbon dioxide.
They're also good for you because they are exercise.
Car share
Lots of people travel alone in their car, or with only one passenger.
A carpool, i.e., sharing the drive with others who are going to the same place, can cut emissions by half.
One car on the road is better than two.
Switch to an electric car
Electric cars don't produce carbon emissions or local air pollution.
If they are charged with electricity from renewable sources, that cuts down on emissions too.
Electric cars can be expensive to buy, but they are cheaper to run.
However, charging them at home might not be easy if you live in a busy area or a flat.
Make your car green
If there is no alternative to driving a car then try to make it as energy-efficient as possible.
- Replace older vehicles with a more fuel-efficient new car.
- Regularly service cars.
- Keep tyres inflated to recommended tyre pressure.
Buy locally
Buy food that is locally produced and seasonable.
If it is produced at a farm nearby, then less fuel is needed to transport it.
Image caption, Cars are the most common form of transport
Cars emit a lot of carbon dioxide, which is bad for the environment and leads to global heating. Pollution from cars causes local air pollution that damages our health.
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