Today is World Car Free Day, an international day of action to promote alternative modes of transportation and a cleaner environment.
“Car Free Day is an opportunity to think critically about the seemingly small choices we make every day, and the impact that they have on our lives and our planet,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and MP for Saanich–Gulf Islands.
“As a Member of Parliament, I will continue to advocate for transportation policies and infrastructure investment that will make it easier for all Canadians to leave the car at home and instead try walking, cycling, or taking public transit.”
On average, Canadians spend the equivalent of 32 working days each year sitting in traffic. Canada’s major urban centres have some of the worst traffic in the developed world, with average commute times of upwards of 80 minutes a day in Toronto and Montreal. Canadians today are also driving more than ever, with total daily car trips in the GTA have increased by nearly 60% over the past 25 years.