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Commuting options save money, reduce pollution

Many employees were eager to check out the look and feel of the new, no emission, electric vehicle, the Nissan Leaf. Owner David Lifferth was happy to show it off. (Vanderbilt University/Susan Urmy)

Almost 20 percent of the greenhouse gas emissions produced at Vanderbilt are from employees commuting to and from work. Combine that with gas prices on the rise, and many employees are exploring their commuting options.

A Clean Air Fair focused on commuting was held on campus April 21.

Employees could look over a Nissan Leaf, check out electric scooters, sign up for Zipcars, sign up to vanpool or carpool, check out the posh seats on a Grayline bus and talk to representatives from the Metro Transit Authority, among other things.

Janet Shelton, a research analyst in pediatric infectious disease, was like most employees attending. “I’m trying to find a way to get to work that is cheaper,” she said. “And one where I don’t have to drive.”

For a complete list of commuting options and discounts available to Vanderbilt employees, visit the alternative transportation website.

Vanderbilt University’s Sustainability and Environmental Management Office (SEMO), VUMC Parking and Transportation Services, and VU Traffic and Parking hosted the Clean Air Fair