Earth Protect Blog

I graduated from the University of Iowa this past May. Like many others, I found myself without a job, without a car, and the first of many student loan payments arriving in the mail. Fortunately for me, after a few months of living at home, I found a part-time job and an internship making the move to Colorado only two weeks ago.

Things are going well, but I’m still unable to afford a car. Living close to downtown and taking the bus make things pretty easy for the most part. There are still times I wish I had a car. I’m currently subleasing and will need a car to move in April. With the holidays fast approaching a car would making getting to and from the airport with luggage, presents and wedding attire (My sister’s wedding is December 21) a lot less stressful. And, I have family and friends coming in January wanting to go skiing and stay in the mountains. But, is it worth the hassle making payments, buying insurance, and maintaining a car when I only need it once every few months? I had been pondering this question a lot, until recently I found not only a solution but an eco-friendly solution as well.

eGo CarShare, a non-profit organization, in Boulder/Denver provides a variety of fuel efficient vehicles at over 35 pods (points of departure). These are available 24/7 for members with reservations making a great alternative for owning your own car.  The great thing is not only are you reducing your environmental footprint but because eGo CarShare takes care of insurance and gas (with a membership) you not only save money on fuel but car payments and maintenance as well (eGo CarShare has one of the lowest fees for car-sharing organizations in North America)

eGo CarShare caters to people who don’t have a car, people who need an extra car on occasions, and people who need a pick-up for moving. eGo CarShare provides memberships to people 18 and up. Multiple memberships are available to fit the needs of those needing a car only a few times a year to those who need one a few times a month. Members are simply required to return the vehicles as they received them.

I’m going to be paying the one time starting fee to receive my own membership. When I have friends or family coming to visit I can simply reserve a car, pay for the time I use it, and then return it without having to worry about any other fees and upkeep. Who knew that being green could be just as beneficial to me as the environment.