Hey Shrewsbury! Today we are talking about sustainable transportation, a sector that plays a crucial role in reducing our contribution to climate change.
By shifting towards modes of transportation that minimize greenhouse gas emissions, such as electric vehicles, public transit, cycling, and walking, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact. These solutions are not only beneficial for reducing emissions, but also improve air quality, reduce noise pollution and promote healthier lifestyles by encouraging physical activity and reducing traffic congestion
Our Town is committed to furthering local sustainable transportation and is leading the way at the municipal level. By accelerating the transition to zero-emission vehicles, enhancing non-motorized, shared, and active transportation modes, and ensuring safe, accessible opportunities for bicycles and pedestrians, Shrewsbury can decrease municipal emissions while promoting public health and wellness.
Explore Electric Vehicles
Making your next vehicle an EV is one of the highest-impact climate actions you can take.
According to Rewiring America, EVs can save you over $1,000 a year on fuel costs relative to gas vehicles, require less maintenance, and have no tailpipe emissions.
Follow these basic steps to explore your EV options at home:
Learn EV basics
- There are lots of resources online to teach you about how EVs work and their basic components. Try watching this video from the New York Power Authority that breaks it all down.
Utilize an EV buying guide
- Buying an EV is exciting, but there are a ton of options out there and it is easy to get overwhelmed. It is always a good idea to read through a comprehensive EV Buying Guide and return to it as you create your purchasing plan. Check out this comprehensive project guide from Rewiring America. It provides not only basic EV information, but also cost calculations, charging specifications, and even a contractor network for home EV charger installers.
Create a purchasing plan
- Okay, so now you know you want to pursue an EV and you know which model you’re going to buy. Great! Create your plan for financing, acquiring the vehicle, and installing your home charger. Start by looking at incentives. Rewiring America has a list of federal credits to opt for and SELCO has utility rebates to look out for.
- Last step! Find a dealership that sells the EV you’re looking for. Use PlugStar’s search tool to make your hunt easier.
Is an EV not in your future right now?
Try other solutions to make your transportation more sustainable:
- Utilize local public transportation like the WRTA
- Take advantage of Shrewsbury’s walking and biking trails
Thanks for reading! Check back on the All-In Shrewsbury dashboard for more ways you can take climate action.