It is no secret that traffic is bad out on the east end this time of year. But traffic jams contribute so much more pollution than normal flowing traffic. There are some intuitive reasons: more cars on the road mean more pollution. Increased time spent in a running car translates into increased carbon dioxide emissions. Time on the road + number of cars = total pollution. But it is not just a simple addition equation. On top of the two variables of time on the road and number of cars, idling, or stop-and-go traffic actually burns more fuel than normal driving conditions (a smooth acceleration pattern).

1 bus = 6 cars
1 train = 15 cars

But it only controls one variable in a mathematically direct way (1:6 or 1:15). A more effective and efficient reduction in pollution could tackle the exponential emissions of idling in stop and go traffic.

Ironically, the solution to eliminating traffic is not building more roads. More and wider roads actually increase traffic. Neither is the best solution to carpool, although it certainly helps. The best solution, or at least the most efficient is to avoid traffic jams. One simple way to do this is to plan your outings at times and locations where there is less traffic. You can find and share up to date information on twitter https://twitter.com/#!/hamptonstraffic. Doing so can reduce pollution exponentially.

Reduce emissions by avoiding traffic – avoid traffic by following/contributing to @hamptonstraffic on Twitter

For a quick but thorough briefing on the environmental effects of traffic see: http://www.environmentalleader.com/2012/01/05/how-traffic-jams-affect-air-quality/

While there are no organized forms of carpooling, there is the eternal debate: Jitney v. hampton luxury liner (or LIRR).