College and university campuses across the United States and Canada are looking for strategies to reduce their carbon footprint on the environment. On many campuses, one of the main goals is offer students alternatives to bringing cars to campus. This can save students money, alleviate parking and traffic nightmares on campus, and reduce fossil fuel use and pollution.
In order to reduce the need for students to bring cars to campus, many of the most environmentally friendly colleges and universities are adopting the Zipcar carsharing program, which allows students (along with faculty members and other employees) to rent cars on campus by the hour or by the day.
What are Zipcars?
Zipcars are vehicles that are a part of the Zipcar, Inc. carsharing program, which is available in many cities as well as on college campuses. About 20 kinds of vehicles are available from the company, but many campuses use Toyota Prius hybrid cars. Once a college or university partners with Zipcar, these cars are parked on campus and are available for students, faculty members, and other employees to rent. Over 120 colleges and universities in the United States and Canada participate in the Zipcar program.
How to Rent a Zipcar
Any student who is a licensed driver and is at least 18 years old can rent a Zipcar. Students have to register with the company and pay an annual fee, which is typically around $25. Rental costs vary in different geographic locations, but students typically are charged around $8 per hour or $60 per day. Gas and insurance are included in the rental cost. Often, roommates and family members can be added to a student's account at no additional charge. Students who are at least 21 years old and register for a campus Zipcar program also are eligible to rent Zipcars in participating cities.
Advantages of Zipcars
Every Zipcar replaces an estimated 15 privately-owned vehicle. From an environmental standpoint, this reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Moreover, Zipcars are newer models, which means they meet stricter environmental standards than older vehicles. Since many students drive cars that aren't exactly fresh off the lot, Zipcars can replace the need for environmentally unfriendly (and unsafe) clunkers. In addition, on campuses with serious traffic and parking problems, Zipcars can ease the burden.
For many students, car ownership is necessary in order to commute from home or to a job. However, for many students who live on or near campus, Zipcars can fulfill their transportation needs. A student who lives in a dorm and wants to be able to run errands and occasionally drive home can have this freedom without the expense and hassle of bringing a car to campus.
Zipcars: A Growing Trend
The over-reliance on privately owned vehicles has taken a toll on the environment, and people are looking for better ways to get around. The rapidly expanding Zipcar program is becoming a key innovation on campuses in search of greener solutions.
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