Fresh Air Rides
Join the challenge today!
Fresh Air Rides (FAR) is your opportunity to take a deep breath and help improve Charlotte’s air quality one trip at a time. The goal? Cut down on single-occupancy vehicle (SOV) trips and reduce harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. From August 4 until August 31, 2025 you can participate! Learn more below or by visiting the Fresh Air Rides website at this link: About Fresh Air Rides.
Create your account
Setting up an account allows participants to log their fresh air rides on the entry form. To be eligible for grand prizes, simply submit an entry; one submission is allowed per day.
Access the official rules document by selecting the button below.
Fresh Air Rides Official Rules(PDF, 366KB)
8 Easy Ways to Participate
Whether you're commuting or running errands, here are 8 smart ways to participate:
1. Catch a Ride with Others
Carpooling with coworkers, neighbors, or friends reduces traffic, saves gas, and cuts emissions. Share the ride and make each mile count!
2. Join a Vanpool
Longer commute? Vanpooling is an affordable and convenient way to travel with a group. Explore options through your employer or visit sharetheridenc.org to find a vanpool. Learn more about by visiting the website through this link: CATS Vanpool Program.
3. Take Transit with CATS
Leave the car behind and ride the CATS bus, Blue Line light rail, or Gold Line streetcar. Relax, skip traffic, and enjoy the ride all while reducing emissions. Plan Your Trip with CATS
4. Bike or E-Bike to Your Destination
Cycling is a clean, healthy, and fun way to get around. Use city bike lanes or greenways to make your trip greener.
5. Choose to Walk
Live nearby? Opt to walk instead of drive. Even one walkable errand or commute each week makes a difference.
6. Use an E-Scooter
E-scooters are a quick, car-free solution for short-distance trips. Perfect for downtown commutes or first/last mile travel to transit stops.
7. Bring Your Lunch to Work
Skip the drive to a restaurant. Packing your lunch even a few days a week helps reduce mid-day vehicle trips and cuts fuel use.
8. Telework When Possible
Working from home even part-time helps reduce road congestion and your carbon footprint. Talk to your employer about remote or hybrid options.
*Reminder: Trips made on a motorcycle, hybrid, electric vehicle, or gas scooter alone do not count as a trip reduction activity. FAR is all about less driving, more sharing, and cleaner air.
Track your trip reductions and learn more about how to participate by selecting the button below.