ChicaGO GREEN Project
Living green in Chicago:

• Transport
• Hotels
• Recycling
• Business

Embarque^TM offers stylish, environmentally responsible, chauffeur-driven services at affordable rates. Embarque^TM delivers safe and reliable service that is universally accessible to any class of business or leisure traveler in the Chicagoland area. Featuring a fleet of EPA SmartWay certified hybrid and standard fuel sedans; Embarque is Chicago's green choice for chauffeured transportation.

Throughout history, Chicago has always been a major rail hub. In fact, several people moved to Chicago as it became a leader in transportation. In Chicago, there's the Metra, the commuter rail agency that serves Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane and McHenry counties in the Chicago area. There are several lines, and there's the amazing suburb-to-suburb STAR line. You can use their trip planner to help you map out your destinations. Metra's sister agency, the Chicago Transit Authority, provides mass transit (called the L). Both these options can be a greener alternative to riding your car. Riding a train is also a great way to get to Chicago and is also an alternative to taking a plane. Rather than stand in line for an hour, you'll enjoy the quiet Midwestern towns and may even see some wildlife. You can also read, sleep, and relax. Trains are a great way to get to airport too. If you are planning a trip and want to use the L, try their on-line trip planner or call 312-836-7000.

Chicago acquired 150 new hybrid buses. These 60-foot long New Flyer buses are plugged into electrical outlets to recharge the rooftops battery power - a big improvement from other buses that need to let their motor run for long stretches. Hop on these buses - they can carry up to 125 passengers. Feel good about improving our air quality and getting to your appointments on time!

Biking is super eco-friendly. In Chicago, you can rent or own several different bikes (mountain, comfort, road bike, kids' bike, and more). Use your bike to get to work or take a guided bicycle tour. Think of Chicago as an urban safari with beaches, gardens, and architectural stops. The Lakefront Path is amazing - an incredible way to get to Navy Pier, a museum, or watch a sunrise. The scenic trail provides great views of the water and skyline. You can even cool off near the beach during the summer months. Burn those calories now so you can get pizza later! Besides reducing traffic, bicycles can be a safe choice, especially since there are bike lanes throughout the city. Bike safely - according to Chicagobikes.org, "ride predictably and establish your position at least 2 feet from the curb and 2 feet from the door zone." You can also bring your bike on CTA buses and trains - there are bike racks outside of most CTA L stations. (Check their website for specific times, sometimes bikes are not permitted on the L during rush hour).

Electric mopeds are not powered by gas, but with an electric battery. These save gas and help the environment. Even if it is not electric, scooters and mopeds save gas. They also don't emit as much emissions as a car or truck. There are several parking garages that offer special rates for mopeds, motorcycles, and scooters, so be sure to ask.

Can you imagine plugging in your car at home? With the Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt, and Toyota Prius PHV, this may soon be possible. These cars are getting a great deal of attention for reducing our reliance on foreign oil. There are various dealerships throughout the city and suburbs selling solar-based electric vehicles, so do your research and start shopping for a better future.

Illinois is leading in E85 Gas Stations - there are over 194 stations selling E-85. There is also the Illinois Alternative Fuels Rebate Program that will offer residents, business, and local organizations rebates for using E85 or biodiesel fuels. We know the city will continue developing fueling stations to support the growth of alternative-fuel use and enhance our air quality.