ST. PAUL, Minn. -- One of the coolest spots to visit at the Minnesota State Fair is the Eco Experience. It's all about showcasing ways we can use precious natural resources more efficiently.
Jamez Smith from Transit for Livable Communities stopped by the KARE Barn at the fair to talk about the "Kick Gas" area he hosts at the Eco Experience. It's a great spot where you can learn about biking, walking and taking transit in Minnesota.
Smith told us the goal is to shift peoples thinking about short trips. Getting out of their car and walking or biking for trips 2 miles or less has many benefits.
For example: Let's say that you drive a sedan to work from your home in Fridley to your office in downtown Minneapolis. That's approximately a 10 mile commute. Traveling between work and home twice a day costs you $7.16. Over one month, you spend $214.80. Over a year? That's $2,577.60. And that's not counting parking, car payments, insurance, and the occasional trip to the grocery store.
And consider this: Avoiding just 10 miles of driving every week would eliminate about 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions a year! The equation is simple: more bicyclists and walkers = cleaner air. 30% of carbon dioxide emissions in MN come from vehicles.
Save your health-Example: Obesity and heart disease are two of many problems associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Car dependence makes it harder to get the 75 minutes of intense weekly exercise or the 150 minutes of moderate exercise the government recommends. Getting on your bike or walking make these goals attainable.
For more information check out these websites:
www.livinggreen.org
www.reduce.org
www.pca.state.mn.us
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