Take the Earth Month Count It. Change It. Pledge
RideFinders News
As gas prices continue to fluctuate, many commuters are feeling the strain of rising transportation costs. This Earth Month, we encourage residents across the Richmond and Tri-Cities region to take control of your commute and your budget by taking the Earth Month Count It. Change It. Pledge.
The pledge is a simple commitment to try a greener, more cost-effective commute at least once a week instead of driving alone. Options include carpooling, vanpooling, taking transit, biking, walking, or teleworking. Even small changes can lead to meaningful savings, reduced traffic congestion, and improved air quality across the region.
Participants who take the pledge commit to:
- Taking at least one trip each week using a greener commute option.
- Combining errands into one trip (trip chaining) to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and lower fuel costs.
- Recording their greener trips on the ConnectingVA platform to track savings and environmental impact.
“With higher gas prices impacting household budgets, now is the perfect time to explore more affordable and efficient ways to get around,” said RideFinders Executive Director, Cherika Ruffin. “The Earth Month pledge is about making simple, practical changes that benefit both your wallet and the community.”
Beyond the pledge, you can also take part in Earth Month by making simple, everyday choices that support sustainability beyond your commute:
- Reduce single-use items: Opt for reusable water bottles, bags, and containers to cut down on waste.
- Be energy conscious at home: Turn off lights, unplug devices when not in use, and adjust thermostats to reduce energy consumption.
- Conserve water: Take shorter showers, fix leaks, and be mindful of water use throughout the day.
- Support local and sustainable businesses: Choose products and services that prioritize environmentally friendly practices.
- Participate in community clean-ups or tree plantings: Small actions in your neighborhood can have a visible impact on the environment.
- Recycle and reduce waste: Pay attention to what can be recycled in your area and aim to minimize what goes to the landfill.
Through the Count It. Change It. campaign, we continue to support commuters and employers with tools and resources that make it easier to shift away from driving alone. By logging trips in ConnectingVA, participants can see firsthand how small changes add up. Take the pledge now.
This Earth Month, we invite you to take the pledge, try a new way to commute, save money on everyday travel costs, and be part of a collective effort to protect our environment.