This May, let’s focus on staying active and helping the environment with the May in Motion initiative! It’s a great way to unplug, improve the environment, and keep active – a win-win for everyone!
May in Motion is a program in Boise, Idaho, that encourages smart commuting every May. It promotes alternative transportation to address the issues caused by over 200,000 commuters driving to work alone. All this extra traffic wastes gas, money, and time, plus it causes road wear, air pollution, and high costs for the community.
For the month of May, the project aims to tackle traffic problems and spread awareness about different commuting options.
May in Motion isn’t just for Boise; its principles can be applied anywhere for both environmental and personal benefits. Finding alternative ways to commute, like biking, walking, carpooling, or taking public transportation, is not only good for the environment but also for your wallet.
Transportation significantly contributes to climate change, making up 23% of global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels, with 75% from road transportation. Even if you can’t walk or bike to work, carpooling or using public transport a few times a week can save money on gas and reduce air pollution.
May in Motion isn’t solely about environmental perks; it’s also about personal health. While Boise focuses on smart commuting, everyone can set their own goals. May in Motion encourages considering other commuting methods, staying active throughout the year, and supporting similar projects in other cities.
Choosing fuel-efficient vehicles, embracing outdoor activities, and getting involved in community programs are valuable lessons from May in Motion that can be applied in any city.
Your town might not have a May in Motion program, but many cities have initiatives with similar goals. Bike programs often promote healthier lifestyles and provide alternative travel options. Whether bike libraries or kiosks, these programs all aim at fostering community, encouraging an active lifestyle, and caring for the environment.
Even without a formal bike program, you can still prioritize biking for yourself and your family. Start with regular bike rides, explore other commuting options, and stay conscious of the impacts of inactivity and pollution.
Making May in Motion your own can be simple. Even if you support the goal but have limited commuting options, you can adapt the idea to fit your lifestyle. Spring’s warm weather opens up various outdoor activities. For example, make date nights in May more active. Walk to a park for a picnic, bike at sunset for some photos, or cycle to a lake for swimming or fishing.
Include your family and commit to staying active in May, potentially starting a year-long habit. Opt to bike instead of driving for short trips, hike with your family, rent canoes for weekends, or collect rocks for DIY projects at the beach.
Outdoor activities don’t have to be strenuous. It’s about maintaining an active lifestyle and appreciating the outdoors.
May in Motion doesn’t have to be limited to May. Consider monthly or seasonal themes to stay active year-round. For instance, marathon March, swim in September, or an adventure in August. The goal is to keep yourself moving.
Being active doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym or become a runner. Try new activities, whether by yourself, with a partner, a group, or family. Mix and match themes and activities for a unique adventure.
May in Motion promotes smart transportation options, benefiting the environment, fostering community involvement, aiding our transport systems, and improving community health. We can all learn from the positive changes it brings to both the environment and the idea of staying active.
Even if you can’t bike to work every day, reducing car trips and incorporating more active pursuits weekly will benefit both the environment and your health. Stay active, everyone!
