More Inspiration for Ditching the Car One Day a Week

Here's a reflection from the Introduction to Sustainable Living Workshop last Saturday with sustainability coach (among other things!), Deborah.

In line with our earlier resolution to cut back on the car and the L.A. bike resources we listed, here's an inspiring snippet from what happened last weekend:

"At last Saturday's workshop, we had a great discussion about all the ways that sustainable living feeds our personal well-being. We also talked about looking for ways to support our green efforts by "letting go" of more, rather than trying to "do" more. For example, what if you simply let go of your reliance on your car one day per week? Despite the voices in your head that say "I could never do that!" "That's impossible"... I promise, it will actually enrich your life.

Make a commitment in 2009 to lessen your carbon imprint and simplify your life by letting go of driving at least one day per week. Walk, bike, carpool and use public transportation whenever possible. I promise that you will find that this enhances your experience of the city, lessens your stress level, and improves your physical well-being."

Check out Metro schedules at 800-266-6883 or www.CommuteSmart.info. 

For bike routes, visit: www.bikemetro.com.

If you are driving but want to carpool more days a week, catch a ride at ZIMRIDE or GoLoco!

We'll see you on the streets...

Green Resolution: Cutting Back on the Car

One simple resolution that will cut back on gas and money spent while possibly bringing more health and well-being?  Ditching the car one day a week.

According to Car Free Days, every mile driven releases a pound of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. So by taking just one day away from the steering wheel, you can make a big difference.  And, of course, the difference would be mighty if we all did this.

(Here are some suggestions for what to do when not driving.)

Plus, by using a human-powered mode of transportation if you need to get somewhere, you'll go beyond combatting climate change to investing in your own physical and financial health as well. I can attest to feeling healthier, happier and more connected to my community when I walk or bike around Silver Lake on errands and outings.

We'll also give you a little discount when you dismount from a bike or stroll, carless, into  All Shades of Green.

For more information on all things biking in L.A., check out these orgs who can help empower your pedaling:

*C.I.C.L.E.

*Los Angeles Bicycle Coalition

*Bicycle Fixation

And finally, find out some gems you can walk to in your neighborhood that you may have missed at walkscore.