Simple changes for greener travel
Getting around is a normal part of everyday life — whether that’s commuting to work, taking the children to and from school, or doing the weekly shop. It helps keep us connected to our communities.
Walking and cycling
Travelling to and from school
According to research, when children walk, scoot or cycle to and from school, they are likely to have better levels of concentration in their lessons and benefit from getting more exercise.
Find out about the benefits of leaving the car at home - visit 'My Journey' Hampshire
Living Streets is a UK charity that encourages walking to and from school
Health benefits of walking
Often the impact of walking is underestimated compared to say hitting the gym, or going for a run, but actually walking is one of the easiest ways to get and stay fit. If more people walked, the air around us would be cleaner.
Discover the benefits of walking on our health and wellbeing.
Electric vehicles
Thinking of upgrading to a shiny new electric car?
Great idea! But do your research thoroughly first, to make sure you’re making the right choice for you. Have a read of some top myth busters about electric cars at www.zerocarbonworld.org
If you’re worried about where to charge your car there are plenty of apps and websites to help to plan your journey. For more local charging, have a look at Hart District Council’s list of car park locations and look into what grants you could receive.
Hampshire County Council want your thoughts about where you would like to see public on-street charging facilities installed - you can complete their survey here.
Flying
If you decide you want to fly, check-out this advice from the consumer group Which?
How to choose the greenest flights
1. Use Skyscanner and Google Flights - both search tools will highlight the greenest flights so you can compare the CO2 savings and choose the most efficient airline for your route.
2. Fly economy - business and first class are responsible for up to four times more CO2 per passenger.
3. Avoid stopovers - fly direct where possible. Taking off uses more fuel than cruising.
4. Pack light - a heavier plane guzzles more fuel. If you want to travel with cabin bags only, find out airline hand luggage allowances
5. Take the train - consider travelling by rail for short journeys. For example, Eurostar emits up to 90% less carbon than a plane.