Out and About

  1. Drive less.
    Cars are a major source of air pollution in the Austin region. Think about how you can run an errand without your car, especially on an Ozone Action Day. By cutting back you'll reduce pollution.
  2. Link your trips.
    Combine errands in a single trip to eliminate cold engine starts and stops - this will reduce pollution and save fuel. Plus, it'll save you time.
  3. Visit www.mycommutesolutions.com.
    Find out how local transit can get you where you need to go or get help finding a carpool partner.
  4. Carpool or vanpool to work.
    Whether you're driving to work, the gym, a baseball game or the park, find a carpool partner and share the ride.
  5. Fill up your gas tank after sunset.
    Putting gas in your tank releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Throughout the day, these VOCs mix with oxides of nitrogen (NOx), "cook" in the sun, and form ground-level ozone pollution. Refueling after sunset decreases the formation of ozone. And remember to never top off your gas tank.
  6. Start a parent carpool in your neighborhood.
    Find other parents and start a carpool to take the kids to and from school. This will decrease air pollution as well as traffic at the school site.
  7. Purchase a low-emission vehicle.
    There are many from which to choose. Visit Travis County’s Drive a Clean Machine webpage at www.traviscountytx.gov/tnr/air-quality/aircheck for information on assistance with repairs or money for a down payment on a newer car.