Quick decision! You’re waiting for a friend to run into Wawa and are on your way to the shore. Do you cut the engine or keep it running?

Americans burn 2.9 BILLION gallons of gas each year, worth $78.2 billion through idling alone.  A good rule of thumb is if you’re going to sit for more than 12 seconds, turn off the car and re-start.

Some communities, schools, churches & businesses have a “no idling zone” to cut down on emissions. Dirty Jerz New Jersey & NYC have limited idling times although no one really enforces it.

Photo: Toon Pool

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher