Reducing one’s carbon footprint is an important step people should take today to help save the planet Earth. Parents can even show their kids the way towards achieving this goal and they can do it every day when bringing the kids to school.
For those still unaware, transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gases. In fact, it creates the second biggest release of carbon dioxide.
So what are the ways you can practice to ensure your kids go to school in an eco-friendly manner?
Let them walk, bike or use a scooter
By not using the car, parents can teach their child the value of walking or biking to school. Walking is a great bonding moment not only between the parent and the child but also with siblings and it teaches kids about being alert, traffic and personal safety. And a great benefit as well is it’s a good form of exercise for both kids and adults.
Statistics show that students who walk or bike are less likely to get injured or killed compared to using the car when going to school. Just make sure that if you let your kids bike or use their scooter, they wear their helmet.
In addition, you can get an e-bike which is available today. This electronic bike is ideal for teens and unlike the traditional bike, allows the rider to travel using the electric power-assist drive without having to pedal particularly when passing through a hilly route.
Get them on a school bus
Consider putting your child on the famous big yellow school bus. It’s another way to expose them to other children and develop their socialization skills. It’s also safer compared to using the automobile. In fact, it is the safest way to bring kids to school according the Transportation Research of the National Academes of Science and Engineering.
Unknown to some of you, the bus is actually more energy-efficient than the car. Although they may be running on diesel, this type of fuel is now being improved through advanced technology.
Carpool with friends
Those who have good friends with kids in the neighborhood can opt for the carpool. You and other parents can take turns in bring the children to school. This way, you save time and money and lower pollution.
Another benefit of carpooling with other parents is the opportunity to get to know your neighbors on a deeper level.
Use the mass transit
This option is best for teens who can go to school in groups via the subway or train. For young kids, this is also possible as long as an adult accompanies the child.
Mass transit is considered safer than using the private car. It also uses less fuel which means lower carbon emissions by about two-thirds compared to driving an automobile.
Image via atlanticcities, washington.edu, elmetroransit