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One Less Car Resources
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Drive one less car.
Whether
it’s your only car or one of several, park it
for a day, a week or a month and try other ways to
get around. Check out the options for mass transit,
car or vanpooling, and bike trails in your community.
If you live in a rural area without access to local
public transportation, consider informal car or truck
sharing arrangements, carpooling with neighbors, and
discovering your regional bus options.
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Own one less car.
Maybe you’ll find you can sell your car and get on a path to greater financial freedom. Many people don’t realize how much car ownership truly costs. According to a 2007 AAA study, the average cost of owning and operating a car is about $9,500 per year in the US (almost $800 a month). What could you do with that $800? Figure out how much your car really costs, including environmental and societal costs, at www.commutesolutions.org/calc.htm
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Try carsharing.
Getting rid of your car is easier if you join a carsharing organization that provides instant access to a network of cars 24 hours a day, on a pay-per-trip basis. A discounted application($35 savings) to Community Car, Madison’s carsharing service, will be offered to all who sign the Car-Free Challenge pledge. Learn about other carsharing organizations and the benefits of carsharing at carsharing.net
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Afford more.
You can afford a nicer place to live when you spend less on transportation, our second highest household expense. Selling a car could allow you to choose a more desirable and convenient location. Many communities offer reduced rate mortgages on homes near public transit. In Madison, check out the Smart Commute Mortgage Initiative. |
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Live your values.
If you’re concerned about pollution, sprawl, and global warming, use the following resources and take a step toward car independence.
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Resources
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Books and Magazines
Divorce Your Car, Katie Alvord. newsociety.com A history of transportation and an in-depth guide to car-liberation by a woman who lived in rural Michigan.
Cutting Your Car Use, Ghent and Semlyen. newsociety.com A practical guide to cutting car use including Madison Environmental Staff Success Stories on page 66.
How to Live Well Without Owning a Car, Chris Balish. tenspeed.com A book filled with realistic alternatives to car ownership, including 100 real-world tips and strategies.
Carbusters Magazine. carbusters.org
A resource published by a non-profit organization in Prague covering the global carfree movement, including international conference information.
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