Did you know more than 40 percent of Seattle's greenhouse gas emissions comes from cars, SUVs and heavy trucks? Even as Seattle reduces overall city emissions, transportation-related greenhouse gases continue to rise.

Did you know more than 40 percent of Seattle's greenhouse gas emissions comes from cars, SUVs and heavy trucks? Even as Seattle reduces overall city emissions, transportation-related greenhouse gases continue to rise.

We admit going car-less isn't easy. You need to live close enough to work, school and shops to make alternative transportation like walking, biking, car sharing and busing work smoothly. Car-lessness also means giving up some spontaneity.

But that doesn't mean a car-less life needs to be all sacrifice, no gain. In fact, we talked to four local residents who say the benefits of being car-free can outweigh the disadvantages:

Jennifer Tice of Wallingford sold her car three years ago. She exercises much more now by using her bike for most errands. She's also saved money, spending only $10 - 100 per month for the occasional Flexcar (now Zipcar) or rental vehicle.

When his eldest son totaled the family car in 2006, Alan Durning and his family of five decided to stay car-free for a year. The Durnings walk a lot now, and have really gotten to know their Ballard neighborhood. The kids even fight less!

For Jeff Youngstrom and Becky Brooks in suburban Issaquah, amenities aren't as nearby as in urban neighborhoods. With no Issaquah Flexcar, Jeff and Becky rely on informal car sharing, which Jeff says "is surprisingly rewarding, deepening friendships and highlighting our natural interdependence." Mostly, Jeff and Becky bike, bus and walk--including taking the cats to the vet on Jeff's bike!

Kurt Hoelting of Whidbey Island is doing more than giving up his car for the coming year. He'll also restrict his movements--by foot, bike and kayak--to the 100km circle surrounding his home. He calls the transportation experiment Circling Home. It's his personal response to climate change and a way of connecting with his Puget Sound surroundings.

Interested in trying the car-free life? Check out Way To Go, Seattle! or get a copy of this book. Read firsthand accounts of Alan Durning's experience with car-lessness on his blog at Sightline Institute. To get your neighborhood's "walkability" score, click here. And for a unique twist on ride-sharing, look into Goose.

Like what you're reading? More to try:

Winter Biking: Tips to Take on the Road

Combating Congestion: Comparing the Methods

Scooters: Know Before You Buy