As we move forward and learn more about issues facing our environment, people are trying to find new ways to help out and do their part. One easy way to start reducing your carbon footprint? Using public transportation.

The city of Rochester, NY held a ROC Transit Day on June 18th, which focused on getting people to find alternative transportation to work, school, run errands or attend leisure activities. It was organized by Reconnect Rochester, and many people new to the bus system realized how easy it is to take buses rather than constantly rely on a car.

According to the Rochester Business Journal, more than 80 local businesses participated in the event by encouraging their employees to walk or take the bus to work, and over 1,000 free bus passes were given out. There were also events and information sessions all over the city.

The transit bus system and motorcoach bus lines are already substantial parts of the national transportation industry, with over 3,400 bus companies — many of them independent and operating just a few buses each — providing safe and affordable passenger trips. With the support of other small businesses, events like this one are incredibly successful.

The idea of public transportation is not a new one. In fact, horse drawn buses were seen as early as the 1820s, and by the 1830s England boasted regular intercity bus service using steam-powered vehicles. The industry has come a long way since then, and they are now making another transition: reducing carbon footprints and emissions.

Mass transit is not only better for the earth, but better for society. Mass transit, unlike the car, is a way to improve access within our communities. You can get about your daily life without a car if you choose. And if you don’t have a choice, you can actually take care of your daily necessities, commute to work and leisure activities. People can walk and bike more when they take mass transit, which is better for their health. They pay attention to their surroundings and interact with other people like they wouldn’t if they were in a car all by themselves. And you never have to stress over finding a parking spot.

Did you use mass transit on ROC Transit Day? If you were a new rider, what did you think of your experience?