Holland Reporter

The City of Holland is preparing for Green Commute Week, scheduled from September 7 to 13, 2025. The event aims to encourage residents to use environmentally friendly transportation options such as biking, walking, running, carpooling, and public transit instead of driving alone.

Efforts in Holland to promote active transportation have included adding bike lanes, new side paths, improved crosswalk safety measures, and a snowmelt system. These improvements are designed not only for convenience but also as essential infrastructure for many residents. The city has focused on making these systems accessible to all community members, including those from marginalized groups who may rely more on public transit and pedestrian pathways.

Sean Monroe, Environmental Planning Intern at the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, emphasized the broader impact of green commuting: "Our community has made active transportation a priority when expanding and reinventing its built environment. From bike lanes and new side paths to enhanced crosswalk safety measures and even our famous snowmelt system, Holland is committed to making green commuting safer and more accessible. While these features may seem like a luxury to some, they are a necessity for many. Marginalized communities, in particular, rely more heavily on sidewalks, side paths, and public transit, and by investing in these systems, we help ensure everyone feels seen, valued, and supported."

Monroe also highlighted the social benefits: "Not only does using green transportation benefit the environment, but it also fosters deeper connections within the community. Taking a bike to the beach or walking downtown might take longer than driving, but it allows you to experience the city on a more personal level. Whether it’s a warm hello from a passing neighbor or the sweet smell drifting from deBoer’s Bakkerij, these are moments you miss when inside a car. Supporting active transportation is a simple but powerful way to nurture a more connected and resilient community."

Green Commute Week will coincide with Holland Sustainability Week this year. Activities include a Leadership Bike Ride featuring Mayor Bocks through Holland’s streets; an Environmental Trivia Night at Tulyp Hotel; and a Green Energy Concert at Kollen Park as part of closing celebrations.

"Participants will also have the chance to win prizes! Gift cards from places like Russ’, Knot Spot, Meijer Gardens, and John Ball Zoo are up for grabs. Just log your green commute and complete a quick survey on our website to be entered into the raffle. Last year we had 80 participants and logged over 3,800 green miles preventing approximately 3,110 pounds of CO₂ emissions—an incredible achievement for one week!" Monroe said.

Personal vehicles remain one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions locally due primarily to carbon dioxide (CO₂) output. Vehicle exhaust adds nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that lower air quality while tire wear releases microplastics; fluids like oil can enter local watersheds during rain events.

Monroe explained further environmental impacts: "Green commuting is a simple yet impactful way to support the local environment. Personal vehicles are one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), which contributes to global warming. Vehicle exhaust also releases nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that degrade air quality and can lead to respiratory issues. Additionally car tires release microplastics and vehicle fluids like oil and antifreeze often wash into local watersheds during rainfall."

In contrast with private vehicle use—which increases pollution—biking or walking reduces emissions significantly according to national data from the U.S. Department of Transportation: replacing just one daily car trip per person could reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by millions of tons across the country.

Monroe noted additional urban benefits: "Green commuting also reduces traffic congestion and the need for sprawling parking infrastructure preserving more green space and improving urban livability."

Residents are encouraged that even small changes in their commute habits can make an impact over time: "Even commuting green a few days a week makes a difference," Monroe said. "Every small action adds up—and together they create a cleaner healthier and more sustainable community."

A full calendar of events is available online for those interested in participating.