Looking for a greener way to get to campus? Austin Community College has developed eco-friendly transportation solutions as part of the college’s commitment to sustainable practices.

“We are a commuter college, so this is a major focus of our sustainability efforts,” says Andy Kim, ACC’s director of environmental stewardship. “By offering sustainable options, we help ease parking congestion at our campuses while lowering the college’s impact on the environment. We encourage all students and employees to give it a try.”

There are a variety of ways to go green when you’re going to campus, including a brand new option – car sharing.

Green Pass: Funded through the student sustainability fee ($1 per credit hour) and employee parking permit fees, Green Pass provides Capital Metro passes to all credit students, faculty, and staff at no additional cost. To obtain a Green Pass, bring your ACC ID to your campus cashier office. Fall 2012 passes are valid through Jan. 13, 2013.

Green Car Parking:  If you drive a fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicle, you could be eligible to park in a limited number of preferred parking spots at each ACC campus.  ACC recently added an online Green Car application, making it easier than ever to apply for Green Car Parking. The stickers are available at no cost, but you must have a valid ACC parking permit.

Car Sharing: ACC has teamed with Zipcar, Inc. to provide car sharing services at Rio Grande Campus (1212 Rio Grande St.). Through the partnership, students, faculty, and staff can take advantage of discounted membership fees. The costs of gas, insurance, reserved parking, up to 180 miles of driving per day, and roadside assistance are included with each reservation. For more information and to find the link to register, visit the college’s sustainability site.

Carpooling: ACC provides resources for students and employees who wish to carpool.

Electric Vehicle Charging: Electric vehicle charging stations can be found at campuses and administrative locations in Austin and Round Rock. You do not need an ACC parking permit to use the stations; they’re open to the college and the community.

ACC launched its collegewide commitment to environmental stewardship in 2009 with the passage of a Board of Trustees policy on sustainable practices. That commitment is reflected in the college’s many educational programs that prepare students for green economy careers. The college offers training in solar panel systems (photovoltaics), wind power, energy-efficient structures, green building, weatherization, alternative fuel vehicles, managing for sustainability, and more.

To learn more about the college’s sustainability efforts, visit austincc.edu/sustainability.