Finding the Commuting Option That's Right For You
If you're like the average Canadian, you have a car and use it for most of your commutes. While a car is great for trips to Superstore and weekend getaways, it shouldn't be your go-to commuting option for everyday things. Think about what you're missing out on. Get to know your neighbourhood and neighbours; explore that path you zip by on your drive home; enjoy "down time" to recharge and de-stress between home and work; be active, save money and minimize effects on the environment by leaving the car at home. Add a little extra time into your schedule and enjoy the benefits that come with cycling, walking and taking public transit.
Benefits of Commuting
Don't think of commuting as drudgery! With every commute, you're making decisions that have a wider influence than just how and when you get to your destination. Consider:
- If you're driving, fill up your car - with people. There are over 1 million registered car owners in Metro Vancouver. Surely some of them are going where you are.
- If you're running, breathe easy. Even if you're on the same road as the cars, you'll breathe less polluted air than the drivers sitting inside their cars.
- If you're taking public transit, go ahead and feel smug about keeping traffic rolling along. One city bus can take 40 vehicles off the road, save 70,000 litres of fuel and keep 168 tonnes of pollutants out of the atmosphere each year.
- If you're cycling, you can easily go 3.5 km in just 15 minutes at a relaxed pace. For short distances, it's by far the fastest way to reach your destination and you'll be leaving zero carbon footprint.
If you're driving, fill up your car - with people.
Commuting - How Much Are You Willing to Commit?
If you're thinking about changing your commuting patterns, don't worry about making a grand gesture. It doesn't have to be all or nothing, especially in the beginning. Besides, you'll want to explore the different options to see which one suits your preferences and needs best. Perhaps you'll discover you love being a road warrior, cycling through urban traffic; or maybe you'll come to relish the "me" time on a SkyTrain ride.
Once you've picked your favourite mode, integrate it gradually into your routine and before you know it, you'll be using active transportation all the time. Here are some ideas for starting off gradually:
- Get off the bus or SkyTrain a few stops earlier and walk the rest of the way.
- Combine cycling with transit or ride-sharing. SkyTrain and buses allow bikes, or use a bike locker.
- If you can't give up the convenience of a car, try ride-sharing or carsharing a few days a week.
- Drive to work on Monday, leave business clothes for the next three days at your office for when you cycle to work, then drive again Friday to collect your clothes to be laundered.
If you'd like to start a conversation with other users about selecting the best commuting option for your needs, or share your commuting success stories or experiences, submit a comment below.