Part of the difficulty in combating climate change is that the problems are so large that it is hard to see how one person's actions can really make a difference. You probably know, for example, that cars contribute to global warming, but you might be stumped about what you should do about that. You have to get to work and go to the store and that means taking the car, right? Sometimes, sure, but there are lots of more eco-friendly alternatives. Here are just a few ways you can make greener transportation choices.

Hybrid and Electric

First of all, consider what kind of car you own. What is your gas mileage? If it's not good, consider making your next car a reliable hybrid or fully electric car. Not only is it better for the environment, it's better for wallets. The money you save on gas will help to offset any extra costs. And there are always affordable auto loan rates for you to be both eco-conscious and budget-friendly.

Ride-Sharing and Carpooling

For people who need a car occasionally but not all the time, ride sharing and carpooling is a great alternative to car ownership. Any time people can share a resource, like a car, that is better for the environment in the long run. Instead of the car sitting there unused, costing resources and eventually creating waste, it gets shared across many households and used more efficiently. If a group of, say, five households can use one car instead of five cars, that's better for the environment. Carpooling is just the same. Five commuters using one car instead of five cars is better for the environment.

Public Transportation

Better still is twenty commuters using the same amount of transportation, and that's where buses, trains and subways come into play. Public transportation networks can make it possible for people to ditch their cars completely in some cities. However, if people don't demand public transportation and use public transportation, then it will go away. Make it clear to your local authorities that public transportation is a priority for you, and then make a point of using it. A modest investment from the government and small steps from citizens can represent a big step forward for environmental friendliness.

Walking and Biking

Last but not least, the best and cheapest way to get around without damaging the environment is to go by foot or by bike. This is not always a reasonable option for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you need to pick up some heavy items from the store, or the weather won't permit you to walk or bike safely outside, or your physical limitations prevent long periods of walking or riding a bike, but for the people who can, walking and biking as much as you can makes a huge difference. In addition to being good for the environment, it's a great way to stay healthy.

Conclusion

One person making these kinds of choices might not have much effect, but it's never just one person making these kinds of choices. When you make this decision, other people around you may be inclined to do the same. The more people seek out greener transportation options, the greater the demand for greener transportation options. As demand increases, suppliers will step up to meet it. As supplies rise to meet demand, the more people realize and consider using these options. It's a self-perpetuating cycle that builds with time, and it all starts with one person making the choice to think green.