by Peter Scott

Created on: June 06, 2008   Last Updated: June 11, 2008

Soaring energy prices, combined with diminishing world energy resources, are forcing people to economize at home and at work. Some have already seen these problems and are attempting lifestyles that minimize damage to the environment, while saving themselves expense. This article suggests some practical ideas by which you can live a greener life and save yourself money - the emphasis is on traveling to work, college or school.

Although the number of people working from home is gradually rising, most still choose to travel to work. For the majority this means taking their car and world cities are congested by single occupancy cars during the morning and evening rush. Extended commuting times, combined with poor fuel economy, mean that driving to work is increasingly expensive (not only with rising gas costs) and an alarming cause of pollution.

One simple solution for a green commute is to share your car or take public transport. Even if your company's workforce is small, it may be possible to find somebody driving from the same neighborhood as yourself. Large companies often have a staff noticeboard where you can post your interest in such an arrangement. Basically, you take turns to drive to work, collecting your co-workers on the way and dropping them home afterwards. Some co-ordination is required but the vast majority of workers begin and end work at the same time. The result - you halve your fuel bill, save wear and tear on your vehicle and, most importantly, reduce your emissions.

Public transport is sometimes seen as the poor person's means of travel although that attitude is changing, not least because of better service and more comfortable buses, trolley car and trains. The benefit to the environment is huge - instead of one person occupying a large space on the road and creating pollution, a bus, trolley car or train can carry hundreds with a vastly lower pollution impact. There are savings to be made - with rising fuel and insurance costs, it can often be less expensive to use public transport. Additionally, some businesses and countries offer tax incentives to take public transport where you get relief on a monthly or annual ticket.

A surprising number of people live within walking or cycling distance of their workplace, school or college. While some might find it daunting to walk or cycle (particularly in neighborhoods where it might not be safe, or in winter where you are traveling in the dark), more people are discovering the most ancient mode of

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