That’s a wrap on the 2019 Green Commute Challenge

The Green Commute Challenge wrapped up on Aug. 30, 2019. This year, 39 employer-based teams with 593 team members recorded 30,875 alternative transportation commute trips — traveling by carpool, vanpool, bus, streetcar, bike, e-scooter and walking, as well as miles they save by telecommuting — during the 12-week challenge. Teams earn points and individuals become eligible for prize drawings.

Total impact of the 2019 Green Commute Challenge

• 39 teams with 593 members
• Reduced driving by 340,458 miles
• Saved $62,051
• Logged 30,875 trips
• Prevented 268,138 pounds of emissions
• Burned 1,488,973 calories

Teams are organized into category based on number of employees. Congratulations to the top-performing teams!

• 500 or more employees — City of Kansas City, Missouri
• 250 to 499 employees — SMG
• 50 to 429 employees — Kansas City Public Library
• Less than 50 employees — DMH

During the warmer months of the year, from March 1 to Oct. 31, the Kansas City region is more likely to experience ozone pollution, which occurs when emissions from automobiles and other sources interact with heat and sunlight. Ozone pollution is harmful for everyone to breathe, especially children and people with respiratory problems, such as asthma or emphysema. 

MARC’s RideshareKC and Air Quality programs collaborate each year to put on the Green Commute Challenge to encourage people to explore other ways to commute. In addition to contributing to better air quality, commuters who use alternative transportation can save money on gas and vehicle expenses and gain health benefits from reduced stress and increased physical activity.