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For those of us in the northern hemisphere (above the equator), September marks the end of Summer and the beginning of Fall. For our southern hemisphere members, they kick off the beginning of Spring. This year, the September equinox - where days and nights are said to be equal in length for everyone across the globe - will fall on Sept. 23, 2023. 

Also in September, cities across the globe will celebrate World Car-Free Day, encouraging motorists to give up their cars for a day. Highlighting the numerous benefits of going car free, this year over 2,000 cities in 46 countries will participate in World Car-Free Day on Friday, Sept. 22! In addition to reducing air & noise pollution and creating safer streets for pedestrians and cyclists, community members in car-free cities show an increase in physical activity and reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with inactive lifestyles.

There are numerous other benefits of going car free including reducing your carbon footprint and saving money. According to research from the University of Oxford, choosing a bike over a car just once a day can reduce the average person’s transportation-related emissions by 67%. As for money savings, according to AAA, the yearly cost of new car ownership is now over $12,000! 

Curious to know your carbon savings? Earlier this year, Strava launched a new tool where you can see your own Carbon Savings by tagging a Strava activity as a commute. This new feature aims to help advance carbon savings and encourage more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

How do you commute? Are you in a city that celebrates World Car-Free Day? We’d love to hear from you! Drop a reply and introduce yourself.