Campus Commuter Challenge to Help Environment

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 30, 2010) – University of Kentucky Parking and Transportation Services (PTS) announces UK’s participation in the 3rd Annual Fall Campus Commuter Challenge, a nationwide competition aimed at reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions on college campuses.

During the month of October, PTS challenges all members of the campus community to help shrink UK’s carbon footprint. Each member of the UK community is encouraged to use alternative transportation in their daily commute, bringing one less car to campus. UK will compete with schools across the country to track alternative transportation use and CO2 savings for the entire month.

“PTS both offers and supports a wide variety of alternative transportation options on campus, including campus LexTran and CATS buses, ride-matching, car sharing and bicycling,” said Don Thornton, director of Parking and Transportation Services. “Our goal for the 2010 Challenge is not only exceed the amount of CO2 emissions saved last October, but to increase awareness of these programs.”

In last year’s Fall Campus Commuter Challenge, out of nine participating schools, UK placed second in terms of CO2 emissions saved, and third in percentage of alternative transportation used. Members of the UK community saved a total of 19,122 pounds of CO2 emissions, which is the equivalent of taking two vehicles off the road for an entire year.

Once an individual registers for the challenge online, their CO2 savings is automatically calculated and added to UK’s total savings each time they record a commute. UK students and employees can sign up at http://commuterchallenges.com/cchome.asp?width=1680&height=1022 by selecting the “3rd Annual Fall Campus Challenge.” Those who are already registered with AlterNetRides may opt in through the AlterNetRides applet.

Participants have the option to register as individuals or join a team within the UK community, enabling departments, clubs and student groups to compete amongst and against each other.

Prizes will be awarded to participating universities and individuals on a national level. Additionally, PTS will give away prizes to participating members of the UK community throughout the month of October.

Among schools participating in the 2010 Fall Commuter Challenge in addition to UK, are the University of South Carolina, the University of Texas at Austin and Western Kentucky University.