The 4 Greenest Forms of Transport
When it comes to getting from A to B, most people hop in their car, without giving much thought to the consequences. Since 86% of cars sold in the UK in 2022 were petrol or diesel, this decision is not great for the environment. If you are concerned about global warming and are looking for a greener way to get around, we have some alternatives.
Walking
Not much can beat walking for short distances. Getting around on two legs costs nothing and can be fun, as long as it’s not raining hard, very cold, or late at night. For short trips to the local shops or the daily commute when your office is less than two miles away, walking is the best option.
Cycling
Most people can cycle a few miles relatively comfortably. It doesn’t expend much energy as long as those miles are not up a 15% incline or into a strong headwind. Cycling is a great way to commute to work, university, or the shops. Install some panniers on your bike and make use of cycle paths to avoid heavy traffic – you’ll burn some calories, build muscle, and help the environment at the same time.
If pedal power is beyond you for any reason, or you need a bit of assistance on the hills, an electric bike offers a lot of advantages. Because it has to be charged, it can’t claim to be quite as green, but if you recharge the battery using solar energy, it is 100% eco-friendly.
Green Options for Longer Distances
Cycling and walking are good for short distances, but they are not ideal if you have more than a few miles to travel.
Public Transport
Public transport includes buses, trains, and trams. Of the three, trams are a very efficient and eco-friendly form of transport because they mostly rely on electric power. If that electricity is generated by solar or wind power, trams are very sustainable. However, not all cities have a tram network.
Trains are the next best thing, with electric trains the ultimate solution. Rail networks are extensive and it’s possible to reach most destinations by train. Trains do emit greenhouse gases, but this is balanced out by the fact they are capable of transporting large numbers of passengers at a time.
Buses are less green but still better than petrol or diesel cars. Furthermore, newer electric buses are emission-free, which is a step in the right direction.
Electric Vehicles
EVs have a much lesser environmental impact than petrol or diesel vehicles, and if you charge your EV at home using electricity generated by solar panels, it’s a win-win. When public transport is not available or a viable option, choose an electric vehicle instead. EVs can be purchased, but leasing is often a better solution, as it means you can upgrade your vehicle more often. LV ElectriX has a guide on EV leasing to help you make a more informed decision.
Finally, ridesharing is another option that can work for some people, especially those that work at the same place. Give a ridesharing platform like Liftshare or Hitch a go and see if it suits your needs.
