Re-imagine your commute

Growing up, I always pictured myself entering the workforce after college and driving my car to and from work — as is the norm. I certainly never imagined my commute to involve traveling by boat. Now, I would not have it any other way. I am right on brand with my Sustainability Service Corps fellowship host site, Commute.org, a public agency in San Mateo County that encourages commuters to use alternative transportation modes rather than driving alone to work.

The agency envisions a region where all residents and workers have access to equitable, sustainable, affordable and safe transportation options and works to reduce drive-alone miles to reduce traffic, help the environment and improve quality of life in the county.

The benefits I get from taking public transportation and biking far outweigh the ostensibly convenient drive. For one, the combined expenses of the Bay Bridge toll, gas and car maintenance are greater than the cost of my ferry ticket and bicycle upkeep. On the ferry, I can also maximize my commute time by getting a head start on my workday or catching up on social media, rather than sitting frustrated and stuck in traffic. Riding my bike to and from the ferry also helps me exercise and boosts my energy levels throughout the day.

Beyond the personal advantages, there is also a significant environmental benefit to ditching your car. As a fellow, I am learning about just how important sustainable transportation is in mitigating climate change — particularly in reducing carbon emissions. In fact, the transportation industry is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the state of California and made up to 40% of the total emissions in the Bay Area, according to a report from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute. Decreasing your dependency on driving alone can be a positive habit for both you and the planet.

Don’t just take my word for it — many others have shared the personal, economic and environmental reasons why they choose to not make drive-alone trips. Each year, Commute.org hosts the Commuter Challenge in the county, offering a $250 raffle to those who pledge to commute sustainably from April to May. Many pledgers regularly use alternative modes and shared why they choose to do so. One transit rider said they enjoy being able to rest or read on BART and not be stressed with traffic. Another commuter shared that in their carpool, they like to relax and enjoy the ride when they’re not driving and can significantly reduce their monthly expenses while helping the environment at the same time.

Driving alone may feel like the only option to commute. Sometimes, driving is the most feasible option, depending on where you are traveling to and other responsibilities you have. However, I challenge you to explore commuting habits beyond this, and all the advantages that come with trying new ways of getting around.

Of course, there is no one-size-fits all approach to sustainable commuting. It could mean breaking out your bike for Bike Month, creating a carpool group with your co-workers, or pledging to make a sustainable trip to work for the Commuter Challenge. With the multitude of options, you may not know where to begin. Commute.org’s website has a variety of commuter resources to help you travel in, to and from San Mateo County and support for low-income commuters or those with mobility needs. Whether it’s a few times a month, twice a week or every day, I encourage you to try out an alternative commute — the benefits might just surprise you.

Isobel Readdie is a fellow with Commute.org through Sustainability Service Corps, a bridge-to-career AmeriCorps Fellowship program that provides professional development to emerging climate leaders and works to empower communities to build a sustainable, healthy and just future for our people and planet.