Vehicle emissions are the second largest contributor to air pollution in Chapel Hill. Living car-free, or even using your car less, is the best way to reduce your personal contribution to Chapel Hill's carbon footprint and make our air cleaner.

1. Take Public Transportation

If you're traveling in Chapel Hill or Carrboro, you can use Chapel Hill Transit⁠ — one of the largest fare-free public transportation systems in the country. Familizarize yourself with Chapel Hill Transit's routes or check out real-time bus updates. For commuters, Chapel Hill's park and ride lots are another great public transit option.

For those unable to use the fixed route system due to a disability, Chapel Hill offers a door-to-door shared ride service called EZ Rider. Customers must be certified and make reservations a day in advance. Learn more about the EZ Rider system.

There are also transit options for destinations around the Triangle like Southpoint Mall, Research Triangle Park (RTP), Raleigh-Durham Airport, Hillsborough, Durham and Raleigh. The GoTriangle bus system offers many routes and has a $2.25 flat fare.

2. Bike

Did you know that Chapel Hill has over nine miles of off-road greenways that link common destinations? Bicycling is an efficient and healthy way to get around. Be sure to check out a map of Chapel Hill's bike routes and greenways.

If you only want to bike part of the way, remember that you can take your bike with you on Chapel Hill Transit and GoTriangle buses.

3. Walk

It’s amazing how many sights, sounds and smells you might notice in the surroundings when you take time to walk. Chapel Hill boasts an extensive trail system, designated walking loops and builds more sidewalks and safety infrastructure each year.

Need something to do during lunch break? Check out the Chapel Hill Downtown Walking Map and take a walk. It’s a great way to discover all of the obvious and more hidden murals of Downtown Chapel Hill.

4. Share a Ride

Carpooling relieves stress and allows time to read, work, or have social time before and after work. It also saves gas⁠—and money. Not sure who to carpool with? Check out Share The Ride NC's free online ridematching service. It will help you identify and reach out to people with similar commutes.

5. Get Rewards

Do you already commute by bike, bus, or carpool? Track your commute on Share the Ride NC and earn rewards from GoPerks. Every smart commute trip earns you points, which can be redeemed for entries into drawings for gift certificates and prizes.

6. Consider Going Electric

Electric vehicles eliminate pollution in our neighborhoods and on our highways. See the electric vehicle models available in North Carolina and where you can recharge while out and about. The Town of Chapel Hill can assist with residential electric vehicle charging station installations through the Permit Center (select Trade Work Only Permit). Additionally, some electric vehicles are eligible to receive a federal tax credit.