The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today that the annual Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge launches on Earth Day (April 22, 2024) and runs through May 31, 2024.
In a continued effort to fight climate change, the campaign, sponsored by CTrides, demonstrates the collective impact that individuals can have in reducing harmful greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the main cause of climate change. The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge shows the benefits of using the state’s public transit systems, carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking, or telecommuting, compared to driving. Through the CTrides app, participants can track their progress and clearly see how individual actions can make a difference.
This year, the campaign’s goals are to eliminate 425,000 pounds of emissions, eliminate 30,000 car trips, and reduce the miles driven by single-occupant vehicles by 480,000 miles. As a new feature this year, the campaign will arrange with its partner, One Tree Planted, to plant 10 trees for every 30 car trips eliminated for up to 1,000 trees across the United States to help clear the air. This six-week challenge also offers participants who record their green trips on the CTrides app chances to win prizes.
“Private vehicles remain our state’s largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. This Earth Day, I encourage all residents to drive less and use greener alternatives to get to where they need to go,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Whether someone is walking or riding a bike, taking a bus or train, or calling for a shared ride on new microtransit services, there are many ways to get around the state. This campaign encourages residents to try these options and help fight climate change.”
The Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge supports Connecticut’s goals to reduce GHG emissions by 45% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. To join, download the CTrides app or go to CTrides.com/DLC to set up a free account and start recording any eligible trips to win gift cards valued up to $500. The CTrides app also offers a trip planner that gives residents travel options to destinations throughout Connecticut.
“We are excited to support the Drive Less Connecticut Climate Challenge again this year,” said Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Emissions from the transportation sector continue to be the biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions and asthma-causing air pollution in our state. This challenge is a great opportunity for residents to consider their transportation habits and the collective impact they can have through taking emissions-reducing actions such as biking, walking, utilizing public transportation, and carpooling and vanpooling. I encourage everyone to join the state’s effort to fight the climate crisis by joining the Climate Challenge starting this Earth Day.”
The CTrides app and the Challenge website will feature a dashboard to track the campaign’s progress in achieving its goals of reduced emissions, car trips and miles eliminated. Participants will receive weekly email updates on their impact on these campaign’s goals and their eligibility for prize drawings. The prize drawings will be held following the end of the campaign.
For more information and to register, visit CTrides.com/DLC.
About CTrides
CTrides is the commuter services program of the Connecticut Department of Transportation designed to provide information on alternate commuting and travel options and services to Connecticut residents, employees, and students, resulting in reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality. Travel options for driving alone include the train, bus, carpooling, vanpooling, teleworking, and walking or biking. The service is free, and everyone is encouraged to visit CTrides.com or call 877-CTrides.