Much has been said about North Americans and their love affair with the car. A symbol of freedom and opportunity, the automobile has become a part of our daily lives. Though the abundance of personal vehicles speaks highly about the merits of living in Canada, it also explains where much of our disposable income goes, why we are battling with ailments set off by sedentary habits, why traffic accidents are a number one killer, why there is a condition known as “road rage”, and why we are the world leader per capita in greenhouse gas emissions -€“ the main cause of climate change.

Getting rid of the household car is not an option for most of us, but anyone can reduce his or her vehicle use. With a reasonable goal of reducing one in five single-occupancy vehicle trips, try the following:

Carpool!

Know a neighbour going to the same hockey practice as you are? Does your co-worker live in the same neighbourhood? Share a ride and share transportation costs, driving responsibilities and company!

Get active! Walk or Cycle.

Peterborough is a beautiful city chock with old neighbourhoods and beautiful, big trees! Take in some of our local landscape by walking, wheeling, roller-blading or cycling to work or school. It will add energy to your day and get you to where you want to go!

Ride the Bus!

Save money and leave the driving to someone else! Peterborough has an affordable Transit System that will get you to most areas of the city.

Combine trips!

With thoughtful planning you can save time and avoid engine wear by combining your errands into one trip. Reduce stress and fuel costs by going in off-peak hours!