Green Your Commute!

During the summer months, high temperatures, sunlight and harmful air pollutants combine to form smog. Ozone is the key component in smog, and many scientific studies have associated ground-level ozone pollution with serious health problems, such as aggravated lung disease and decreased lung function. It can also trigger and intensify asthma attacks. Children, the elderly, and people already suffering from lung disease are especially vulnerable to its effects.

Through the Office of Sustainability and the Knozone program, the City of Indianapolis issues Knozone Action Day alerts when the Air Quality Index (AQI) forecast predicts conditions that will form high levels of ground-level ozone. Making changes to your commuting behavior can positively impact our air quality in Indianapolis. Check out stats and resources below to learn about alternative commuting options and benefits of transit.

Public Transportation Provides Economic Opportunities 

Every $1 invested in public transportation generates approximately $4 in economic returns.

Public Transportation Saves Fuel and Reduces Congestion 

The latest research shows that in 2009, U.S. public transportation use saved 785 million hours in travel time and 640 million gallons of fuel in 439 urban areas.

Public Transportation Reduces Gasoline Consumption 

Households near public transit drive an average of 4,400 fewer miles than households with no access to public transit.

Public Transportation Reduces Your Carbon Footprint 

One person switching to public transit can reduce daily carbon emissions by 20 pounds, or more than 4,800 pounds in a year.

Public Transportation Enhances Personal Opportunities 

83 percent of older Americans acknowledge public transit provides easy access to things they need in everyday life.