Sustainable Commute

The decision we make on how to get to work, run errands and recreate have a profound impact on our budget, quality of life and the environmental footprint. Reducing the pollution produced by a “one person, one car” commute has a major impact on the region’s air quality. Transportation is the fastest growing sector in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. The Council recognizes that transportation is also an environmental justice and equity issue. The Council works to reduce the number of vehicles on the road for commuting purposes by being a strong advocate for public transit, biking and walking, and carpooling.

Promoting expanded public transit has been a high priority for the Council since its inception. Over the years the Council has supported federal and state policies that provide increased funding for public transit. The Council is a strong supporter of a federal transportation bill that favors public transit, and has made its passage with strong support for rail and bus service a high priority. Over the years the Council has worked closely with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transit Authority (SEPTA) to improve its customer service and public input, including conducting rider satisfaction surveys.

The Council's Mobility Alternatives Program (MAP) works to reduce the impact of local traffic congestion and poor air quality by providing information to employers and employees about a wide range of alternative transportation options. These options help employees save time and money on their commute, and help companies improve their benefit packages, employee morale, and their bottom line.  There are MANY alternatives to the single-occupancy vehicle. Some of the options Clean Air Council promotes are:  

• Share-A-Ride commute matching 
• Locating and using public transit 
• RideECO
• Supplemental programs 
• Telecommuting opportunities
• Flextime/condensed work week