Did you know that transport is one of NZ’s largest sources of carbon emissions and 90% of this comes from road transport alone? Giving your car a day off will make more of an impact than you might think.
Today, Friday 22 September is World Car Free Day, a day to collectively give back to the planet and reduce carbon emissions by leaving the cars at home.
Nelson born peanut butter brand, Pic’s Peanut Butter is adding fuel to the World Car Free Day movement in a bid to nudge Kiwis to rethink their transport habits. Founder of the brand and passionate environmentalist, Pic Picot will be closing the carpark at his peanut roastery and tourist attraction, Pic’s Peanut Butter World.
Blocking the entrance to the Whakatū Nelson landmark with the iconic giant Pic’s jar, Picot will be stationed outside from early morning to symbolically stop cars from entering. He’ll also be dishing out special peanut butter prize packs to the first 50 guests that arrive on foot, by bus, bike or scooter, and staff will be shouted a free coffee if they arrive car-less on the day.
“Let’s ditch the cars and enjoy some peace and quiet on the roads all while giving our planet some much needed TLC,” says Picot.
Since 1990, New Zealand has doubled in carbon emissions produced from transport alone[1]. Almost half of Aotearoa New Zealand’s car trips are less than 6km long, equivalent to under 10 minutes on the bus and 15 minutes on an e-bike[2].
The World Car Free Day movement gives us a chance to evaluate our footprint and understand how small steps can have a great positive impact.
Here are some tips on reducing your carbon footprint, not just tomorrow but every day.
Switch up the commute
Try once a week swapping out your daily commute in the car or Uber for a bus ride and use this time to listen to a podcast instead. Bonus points if you can take an electric bus!
Energy efficient
Switch your light bulbs to LEDs, they use up to 85% less electricity than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs and can last 15 times longer. For optimal energy conservation, turn off lights when not in use.
It’s like riding a bike
For those where it’s been a while, take a chance on the bike for a short trip (e.g. supermarket, beach or mall). Rustle out from the garage or hire an e-bike and take for a spin. It’s incidental exercise and there’s some beautiful bike routes around, you might even get a new hobby out of it.
Eat locally and seasonally
Support local farmers and reduce the carbon footprint of your food by buying locally grown and seasonal produce.
For more information on how you can make an impact, go to www.genless.govt.nz
[1] https://genless.govt.nz/for-everyone/on-the-move/explore-transport-options/
[2] https://genless.govt.nz/for-everyone/on-the-move/explore-transport-options/
