This Valentine’s Day, show some love for the Earth by embracing alternative forms of transportation instead of the single-passenger vehicle. By opting for zero-emission modes of transportation, such as bicycles or the Connect Transit buses, individuals can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also help make our community more inclusive and accessible.
Biking offers a myriad of benefits beyond sustainable travel; it also promotes physical health, reduces traffic congestion, and can develop the community. Bicycle owners also should show some love to their bikes by securing them to a campus bike rack with a U-shaped lock and registering the bike through the campus Project 529 Garage, a national bike registration system that safeguards against theft and also ensures the bike makes its way back to its owner if it ever goes missing.
Regular bike maintenance, such as keeping tires inflated, lubricating chains, and ensuring brakes are functioning correctly, not only prolongs the lifespan of the bike but also enhances rider safety. Campus members can also bring their bikes to the Office of Sustainability on Fridays between 10-4 p.m. for free basic bike repairs. Visit the Campus Green Map for locations of bike repair stations and bike racks around campus.
Another way to love the planet is to take Connect Transit buses to get around campus and the Bloomington-Normal community instead of taking a personal vehicle. Public transportation drastically lowers emissions per passenger compared to individual journeys in a personal vehicle. Additionally, much of Connect Transit’s bus fleet is electric, meaning emissions are practically zero. And for a bonus, Redbirds can ride Connect Transit for free with their Redbird ID card.
Using alternative forms of transportation is just one way to show our planet some love this Valentine’s Day, but it can make a big difference one eco-friendly commute at a time. You can also show some love to the Office of Sustainability by giving during Birds Give Back on February 22, 2024. This year, the Office of Sustainability is raising funds for their bike share program to enhance biking options for students across campus.
