Time again to start thinking about what it means to travel green. April 19 2001 marked the first Car Free Day in Singapore. Although the campaign received a high level of publicity from the local media, public participation remained low. In fact, within the central business district, traffic volume was reduced by only 1.4 per cent. Eventually, the campaign name was changed to Green Transport Day (GTD) in 2003, to encourage more commuters to participate. While Car Free Day's main focus was to encourage motorists to explore alternative forms of transport, and to rely on public transport. GTD encompasses other messages. These include promoting green vehicle technology, fuel efficient vehicles and better vehicle maintenance. Still, one wonders if Singaporeans care enough about the environment to sacrifice personal comfort and convenience for public transport and concomitantly, less congested roads, reduced usage of land, energy and material resources, as well as cleaner air. Needless to say, we have been encouraged by the growing response from companies and individuals who have either pledged their support for GTD, or have switched to greener modes of transport, such as cycling, walking, bus/train/cabs, or car-sharing and car-pooling schemes. This year, we're calling for more views on what it means to travel green and what are the factors that would increase ownership of and demand for green vehicles in Singapore? Where can you air your thoughts? On our new forum/discussion board, of course. New GREEN TALK forum/discussion board After a long hiatus, we have finally put our discussion board back online. You don't need to be a die-hard tree hugger to have an opinion on the environment, because all of us depend on the planet for our survival and that of future generations. So, we're literally sitting on the edge of seats waiting to hear what you have to say on any given issue, on any given day. Whether it's on Pulau Semakau being opened to the public as a nature spot; or the Marina Barrage in the city; or whether you'd ever choose to buy a green vehicle; or whether the environment should be made into a compulsory module in schools. No opinion, no matter how cryptic and obtuse is rubbished here, that is so long as you have a point to make and a rational case to put forward. Feel free to pay a visit to see what's getting people talking, post a comment, or start a new topic going. And even if you're stuck for words, there are polls you can vote on, so your voice can be heard. We've also updated our calendar of events for 2005, under the Miscellaneous thread. Please come back often to check for new green-related activities and events. Of course, all registered members can post their own events too, and listings of green-related products and services. Just remember to keep it civil. Thank you and enjoy the space. To open in a new window (recommended): Go to the GREEN TALK Forum Now To open in same frame: Go to the GREEN TALK Forum Now