American drivers may be parking their cars … permanently! And that is a great thing for our planet’s environment!
With 246 million motor vehicles and 209 million licensed drivers in the United States, there are far too many vehicles on the roads. With driving, congestion runs rampant; driver stress increases, accidents occur and fuel costs skyrocket. While vehicles do provide convenience, mobility and independence, people are losing interest in replacing their aging car or truck. Statistics reported from the Earth Policy Institute (located in Washington, D.C.) show that new purchases are down considerably – 10 million vehicles were sold compared to 14 million cars being taken to the junkyard. To put this into more perspective, the country’s entire fleet has shrunk by four million vehicles or two percent. Granted, two percent may not seem like much, but when speaking in regards to these numbers, it is an astronomical figure.
America’s former vehicle owners are realizing that other transportation options exist. They can walk, ride their bikes, carpool or board public transit to get to and from their destinations. Not only does this significantly reduce traffic congestion, it reduces driver stress from getting stuck in traffic jams. Drivers are wasting time and money while idling away waiting for the road to clear ahead. Furthermore, fewer cars equate to less pollution which equates to a cleaner, healthier planet. With breathing in clean air and exercising, the public lives healthier lives as well.
Do you or your family really need that vehicle parked in your front driveway? If you can’t give up the convenience immediately, try tapering off. You do not always have to drive to get from Point A to Point B. Park your car permanently. The American public seems to be leading by example – and good for them.
