The ceaseless groaning of the mother earth is falling on deaf ears. Slowly and steadily the environment is falling into an abyss of degeneration from where it can never come back. Industrialization and technology has grown over so much that in the overpowering ecstasy of its provisions, we have forgotten to think about the very earth we live in. Using the nature for his selfish needs, man refuses to believe that one day its resources are going to be completely used up. One of the major causes of the environmental degeneration is air pollution. Industries, transportation, etc emit greenhouse gasses contributing to the excess contamination of air. Alternative transport or green transport relies on using vehicles that are efficient and produce very less toxic fumes or carbon dioxide. Read on to find out how choosing an alternate transport can help in reducing the ill effects of modern automobiles against our environment.

Walking: Walking is one of the best alternative green transport options you can choose. Not only does it benefit the environment but also helps tremendously in keeping you fit. The health benefits alone would give you a thousand reasons as to why you should walk daily. We not only feel great but it also reduces our chances of having cardiac and other health problems. It also builds muscle strength and helps you maintain your bones and joints with good health. So it is better to find a place close to work so that you can walk to work everyday. Or probably go to the stores on foot. The beauty of walking is that no equipment is required nor does it require special talent or skill. All you need is a good pair of shoes which fits you right. Apart from walking, you can also try skating or rollerblading. It is a faster means of travel than walking, yet, more fun and healthy too.
Cycling: Cycling is another option for those looking for alternative transport. The benefits of cycling are countless. It is not only faster as compared to walking, but also burns a lot more calories. Most of the body’s muscles are activated during cycling and it makes them stronger and efficient. Also, if you are consistently cycling over a period of time, you will have improved stamina which in turn will reduce tiredness and fatigue. Your bicycle does not run on any fuel and therefore is beneficial to the environment as well.
Public transport: Since most of the greenhouse gasses are emitted by transport systems, it should be the responsibility of every individual to make an effort to do their part in reducing it. Taking public transport like the electric train, whenever possible, would have a great positive effect on the environment. Trams or electric buses should also be used whenever possible as the fuel used per passenger is less than that used when travelling in private vehicles. Car pooling from work is also an efficient way of travelling as the number of people travelling in one car is increased as opposed to each travelling in their own car. Nowadays, facilities like park and ride are available in many places which allow you to park your private vehicles for the day and transfer to take public transport for the rest of the journey. The private vehicles can be taken back after returning from the trip.
Hybrid vehicles: A new array of hybrid vehicles which combine the technology of internal combustion engine and that of an electrical engine to get better fuel efficiency without impacting the power, are available today. If one thinks that it is not possible to use the public transport systems mentioned above, they can still do their bit to the environment by using these green vehicles. They have lesser adverse impact on the environment when compared to the conventional vehicles as fuel efficiency is much higher than that of a conventional vehicle.
Electric vehicles: All of the electrical vehicles help in avoiding the green house effect problem as they do not emit harmful gases into the environment. They can be charged overnight for an average day’s use and there is no air pollution. Noise pollution is also considerably reduced.
Consciousness and care: Even with the use of conventional vehicle, several things can be taken care of which will increase fuel efficiency, thereby producing less toxic gases. Driving within the speed limits and never letting the car switched on and idle for too long, can ensure that you save a lot of fuel which otherwise goes waste. For short tasks, where we have to cover small distances, it is wise not to rely on your vehicle. It would be great if you could do it by walking or cycling. When the engine of a vehicle is cold then emissions are more. Keeping the windows shut while driving and having the tires inflated to the right pressures, also ensures that your vehicle emissions are low. Also, it is advised to remove unwanted heavy objects from the car as it adds to the weight of the vehicle thereby increasing emissions. Keeping the air filters and fuel filters clean also ensures that very minimal amount of emission is produced from your car. If you are yet to buy a car, then consider buying a vehicle that uses renewable sources of energy or a green vehicle. If that is unacceptable, then go for the most fuel efficient and low emission car available.
The fuel resources are fast disappearing from the face of the earth and pollution is constantly on the rise. It is high time that each individual realizes that it is everyone's responsibility to check where changes can be made to put an end to the deteriorating condition of the earth. Technology has advanced and there is a lot of research going on to find better and alternative green transport that would decrease the emissions that affect the environment. We as people of this earth are responsible for its well being and for the sake of a better tomorrow, each individual should take a big step in saving the planet.