Alternative Transportation

Green Schools Challenge Activities:

STE(A)M Activity - Future Air: Imagine Life in 30 Years

CREATE YOUR OWN - Submit Lesson Plan here   or utilize a previous lesson created by DIG from our Lesson Library.

Points for participation will be based on a rubric. Download here.

Alternative Transportation Activity Submission Form Click Here

What's the problem?

Transportation significantly impacts the environment and human health through several interconnected mechanisms. Vehicles emit pollutants like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter, which contribute to air pollution and poor air quality. Additionally, the combustion of fossil fuels in transportation releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, exacerbating climate change and its associated effects like global warming and sea level rise. This can also lead to the development of thermal inversions and smog settling over cities, exacerbating breathing impairments and increasing the chance of developing a respiratory disease. Noise pollution from traffic can disrupt sleep patterns, damage native bird and bat populations, increase stress levels, and negatively affect mental health, while road accidents pose risks of injury and fatalities.   

Why should we care?

Transportation is the largest contributor to the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Moms Clean Air Force warns that exposure to polluted air increases the risk of diseases like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and respiratory cancer. Air pollution from vehicles significantly impacts public health, especially for those living near busy roads, and also affects the economy; the EPA estimates approximately 4.8 million workdays are lost annually due to poor air quality. Additionally, smog settling over cities can greatly harm local businesses and overall harm people’s quality of life. 

What can we do?

It is crucial to implement solutions such as promoting alternative and public transportation options that reduce emissions and vehicle congestion. Schools play an important role by implementing transportation programs that cut emissions and improve air quality around campuses. Initiatives like "Bike to School Day" not only enhance public health but also reduce carbon footprints, potentially encouraging students to opt for biking over driving. Furthermore, school PTSA events like Walk to School Day help to greatly reduce people’s carbon footprint whilst also increasing people’s physical health.