National Commuter Challenge
The National Commuter Challenge is an exciting event that invites people across Canada to leave their cars at home and embrace sustainable transportation. During this week-long challenge, participants can walk, cycle, carpool, or use public transit instead of driving alone.
Activate workplace sustainability initiatives and eco-conscious commuters during National Commuter Challenge week with branded carpooling, transit, and active-transport campaigns that drive employee engagement and reduce corporate carbon footprints.
- Carpool Karaoke challenge: encourage teams to share fun commute moments on social media
- Workplace leaderboard: track which departments/companies log the most sustainable commute miles
- Transit discovery guides: partner with local transit agencies to highlight hidden gems accessible by public transport
- Walking meeting wellness series: promote mental health and creativity benefits of active commuting
The National Commuter Challenge started in 1999. The Sustainable Alberta Association (SAA) initiated this event with support from the Federal Government’s Climate Change Action Fund. Kathryn Winkler led the project, aiming to encourage Canadians to choose greener transportation options.
In the beginning, the challenge saw participation from various cities, workplaces, and individuals across Canada. By 2000, twenty cities had registered for the event, showcasing widespread interest in sustainable commuting. The event highlighted the positive impacts of reduced car use, such as lower greenhouse gas emissions and fuel savings.
Over the years, the National Commuter Challenge has grown, with thousands of participants joining annually. Different organizations have coordinated the event, including Auto Free Ottawa and Go for Green.
Today, a dedicated team of volunteers continues to manage the challenge, promoting eco-friendly travel and fostering a collective effort toward a cleaner environment.
Bike to Work Day
Kick off the National Commuter Challenge with a bike ride to work! Grab your helmet, hop on your bicycle, and enjoy the fresh air. Cycling not only reduces your carbon footprint but also gives you a great workout. Encourage colleagues to join the fun, and start a friendly competition to see who can bike the most miles in a week.
Carpool Karaoke
Turn your carpool into a moving karaoke session! Gather your coworkers, friends, or family and take turns singing your favorite songs. Carpooling reduces traffic and emissions, and adding karaoke makes the ride more enjoyable. Don’t forget to record the funniest moments and share them online to spread the joy of sustainable commuting.
Walking Meetings
Transform your usual office meetings into walking meetings. While discussing work, take a stroll around the block or visit a nearby park. Walking meetings boost creativity and health while reducing stress. Plus, they fit perfectly into the spirit of the National Commuter Challenge by promoting active transportation.
Public Transit Adventure
Make a game out of using public transit for your daily commute. Try different routes, explore new areas, and discover hidden gems in your city. Using buses, trains, or trams reduces your environmental impact and can lead to unexpected adventures. Challenge yourself to use only public transit for the entire week.
Telecommuting Fun Day
Celebrate the challenge by working from home for a day. Set up a cozy workspace, dress in your comfiest clothes, and enjoy the zero-commute life. Use the extra time saved from not traveling to relax, exercise, or pursue a hobby. Telecommuting cuts down on emissions and provides a refreshing change of pace.