Did you know that about 1/8th (or 13%) of the world’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are from transportation?[1] Sadly but not surprisingly, the U.S. has a lot to do with that. In the U.S., 29% of our GHG emissions are from transportation, and it’s growing fast![2] Between 1990 and 2007, GHG from American transportation increased by 27%![3] Yikes!

Now you might be thinking, “Those emissions aren’t from me and my vehicle. They’re from trains, planes, freight trucks, and other sources.” Well, you are right that the transportation we’re talking about does include all of those pollution sources, but you may be surprised to learn that 62% of the emissions are from passenger cars, SUVs, minivans, pickup trucks, and motorcycles.[4] Your actions can make a difference.

Check out what you can do below: “The basics” (for the beginners), “Get green” (for those ready to make some changes in their lifestyle), and “Deep green” (for those ready for big commitments).

[1] In reference to human-caused GHG emissions, according to the most recent climate change report: IPCC 2007, page 14 of 52.

[2] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

[3] Reference: 2009 U.S. Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report: Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2007, published in April 2009. U.S. EPA. The sub-document that has the actual data is called “Trends in GHG Emissions” and is on page 3 of 34.

[4] Greenhouse Gas Emissions from the U.S. Transportation Sector 1990–2003, page 18 of 68.

Franklin Farm, VT: One of the Organic Valley
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