The most obvious reform commuters can make is cutting back on emissions. In other words: drive less. I understand why some students are intimidated by the prospect, but there are a few convenient changes that commuters can make that will make a big difference.
Carpooling is a great way to reduce fuel emissions. If a fellow Grizzly lives in your area, offer to give them a ride on days you have class. I know that it's no fun waiting for your ride to get done with class, so you may want to consider signing up for classes with friends. Not only does that provide you with a carpool option, class is almost bearable if you have a friend with you.
If there's no one to carpool with, make an effort to schedule your classes in blocks. This is the least you can do. Take it from someone who schedules their classes at the last minute: block scheduling is not that hard. I drive to OU just twice a week for my two classes, and I waited until the middle of December to schedule classes.
Now if those first two suggestions are asking too much, this last step is one all commuters can and should follow. When you make it to campus and find that elusive parking spot, pleasepleasepleaseplease TURN OFF YOUR CAR! I understand that surfing Facebook on your phone in the comfort and privacy of your heated car is enticing. But people, there are several buildings right in front of you that will provide that heat and comfort. I cannot express how maddening it is to walk across the parking lot in the morning and hearing your SUV's motor chugging away.
Making this minor change, along with the others, will not only impact the environment, but your wallet as well. That's the added bonus. So save yourself some money, carpool when you can and contribute to saving the environment.
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