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Sustainable Living

Simple travel changes that lower your carbon footprint

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You can reduce your transport carbon emissions in many ways, such as taking public transport and getting active.

Households account for about one quarter of Brisbane’s total carbon footprint. Half of a typical household’s footprint comes from transport.

Driving less or choosing low-emission vehicles are obvious ways to reduce transport carbon emissions. But they’re not the only options! We’ve compiled some tips to help you take action and lower your carbon footprint, at home and in the community.

Take public transport

Brisbane has an extensive public transport network. It includes one of Australia’s largest and most sustainable bus fleets. Ferry services run along the Brisbane River and the city also has a train network. We also have the turn-up-and-go Brisbane Metro with it's fleet of fully electric vehicles, called 'metros'.

Our commitment to accessibility means that everyone, including those with wheelchairs and prams, can easily ride with us. Plus, buses and trains are fully air-conditioned, making your commute comfortable - even in summer.

Translink has got you covered with all the information you need to know to take public transport. Their journey planner will help you choose the best route and find ticket and fare information. By using a go card, you’ll save more than if you purchase paper tickets, and off-peak travel is even cheaper. You can also find information about discounted fares and ways to save on Translink’s website.

Get moving with active travel

Instead of using your car or ride-share services, choose to walk, run, scooter or bike ride. Reduce your carbon footprint and save on fuel and maintenance costs. Being active also boosts your mental and physical health, which can help improve your overall quality of life.

Did you know that one third of people in Brisbane live within 300 meters of a bikeway? You can easily get around Brisbane on foot or on wheels. The city has an extensive network of bikeways and shared pathways. Brisbane City Council's Active School Travel programs provide resources, information and incentives. They help you make the switch to active travel.

Need help riding around Brisbane? Try an e-bike or e-scooter to make hills easier and to give you an extra boost. You don’t need to own an e-bike or e-scooter. Shared options are available across Brisbane and they make it easier to get around without using a car.

Save on fuel through eco-driving

If you want an easy, eco-friendly way to drive, try adopting eco-driving techniques.

You can reduce fuel use and carbon emissions by changing how you drive.

  1. Use gentle braking and accelerating.
  2. Maintain a steady cruise speed.
  3. Turn off your car when parked.
  4. Keep tyres inflated to the manufacturer's recommendation.

You can learn more eco-driving tips, including vehicle maintenance and efficient trip planning, in the RACQ eco-driving e-learning tool.

Use biofuels instead of petrol

If your vehicle is compatible, switch from petrol to biofuel blends like E10. This can reduce your car's carbon emissions by around 7%.

E10 fuel is a blend of up to 10% ethanol (a renewable energy source) and 90% unleaded petrol. For compatible vehicles, performance and drivability should remain the same. You will need slightly more fuel to cover the same distance. You can check your car’s compatibility in your owner’s manual or with your vehicle manufacturer.

Reducing your household carbon footprint is good for the environment. It can also save you money and improve your lifestyle. Small steps at home to save energy can make a big difference. There are carbon-reduction actions to suit all homes, budgets and lifestyles.

Take the Brisbane Carbon Challenge today. Learn how your habits affect your household carbon footprint and discover practical ways to reduce your carbon emissions.