January is a time for fresh starts, and many people consider new habits. Have you thought about driving less? For many, hopping in the car is just part of the daily routine. But each time we drive, we’re making a choice that impacts our health, our community, and the environment.
At Missoula In Motion, we encourage people to explore sustainable transportation through the annual Clear the Air Challenge. This event inspires our community to use eco-friendly travel methods, especially when it’s tough to change habits.
It’s not too late to join! Participants can track their sustainable trips and even win prizes. Whether you commute to work or run errands, every effort counts. And it doesn’t take much—just logging one trip could win you something!
Why focus on reducing driving? Transportation is responsible for 37% of local CO2 emissions, mostly from personal vehicles. In Missoula, winter inversions trap pollution close to the ground, resulting in poor air quality. Extended exposure can lead to serious health issues like heart and lung diseases.
Interestingly, one-fourth of trips in the U.S. are just a mile or less, but nearly all are by car. This shows we really can make a difference if we rethink our choices.
Missoula has set ambitious goals to shift how we travel. The Missoula Connect 2050 plan aims to cut drive-alone trips in half and triple those using bikes, walking, or public transit by 2050. Achieving this will require new ideas, supportive policies, and improvements to our infrastructure.
Missoula In Motion has been exploring transport options for nearly 30 years, helping residents see the benefits of sustainable travel. We know some people face many barriers to biking, walking, or using public transportation, and not everyone can go car-free. It’s about making small changes that add up. For example, imagine if everyone in town took the bus or carpooled just one day a week. The impact would be huge!
This year’s mild winter has many people worried about snow. But walking or biking, even when it’s cold, can improve your mental health and foster a sense of community as you work together for a healthier future.
Switching to sustainable transportation opens doors to benefits beyond just reducing emissions. It can enhance your well-being and create a more connected community. By seeing commuting in a new light, we can help make Missoula a healthier and more sustainable place for everyone.
For more insights and resources about sustainable transportation options, visit Missoula In Motion.
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