CT DOT urging car owners to drive less for May
If you own a car in Connecticut, the state’s Department of Transportation has a message for you: drive a little less during the month of May.
The CT DOT announced the annual Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge launches Monday for Earth Day and runs through May 31.
“In a continued effort to fight climate change, the campaign, sponsored by CTrides, demonstrates the collective impact that individuals can have in reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions, the main cause of climate change. The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge shows the benefits of using the state’s public transit systems, carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking, or telecommuting, compared to driving,” the DOT said in a statement.
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Through the CTrides app, participants can track their progress and see how driving less can make a difference.
This year, the campaign’s goals are to eliminate 425,000 pounds of emissions, eliminate 30,000 car trips, and reduce the miles driven by single-occupant vehicles by 480,000 miles, according to the DOT.
“Private vehicles remain our state’s largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. This Earth Day, I encourage all residents to drive less and use greener alternatives to get to where they need to go,” said CT DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Whether someone is walking or riding a bike, taking a bus or train, or calling for a shared ride on new microtransit services, there are many ways to get around the state. This campaign encourages residents to try these options and help fight climate change.”
As a new feature this year, the campaign will arrange with its partner, One Tree Planted, to plant 10 trees for every 30 car trips eliminated for up to 1,000 trees across the United States to help with clean air. This six-week challenge also offers participants who record their trips on the CTrides app chances to win several prizes.
“We are excited to support the Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge again this year,” said Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Emissions from the transportation sector continue to be the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions and asthma-causing air pollution in our state. This challenge is a great opportunity for residents to consider their transportation habits and the collective impact they can have through taking emissions-reducing actions such as biking, walking, utilizing public transportation, and carpooling and vanpooling. I encourage everyone to join the state’s effort to fight the climate crisis by joining the Climate Challenge starting this Earth Day.”
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The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge supports Connecticut’s goals to reduce GHG emissions by 45% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. To join, download the CTrides app or go to CTrides.com/DLC to set up a free account and start recording any eligible trips to win gift cards valued up to $500. The CTrides app also offers a trip planner that gives residents travel options to destinations throughout Connecticut.
Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com
