(ATLANTA, GA — 12.19.11)

For decades, four of the top 10 New Year’s resolutions have been to lose weight, save money, spend more time with friends and family and reduce stress.  But, research shows that only 12 percent of Americans actually achieve their goals each year. 

Georgians already driving themselves crazy about making good on their resolutions in 2012 should consider making the switch from driving alone to commute alternatives to ensure they meet their goals this year. Here’s how they can do it:

• To lose weight.  Choosing to walk or bicycle to work or while running errands can integrate benefits connected to a healthier lifestyle. With more than 25 percent of all auto trips less than a mile in length, walking or cycling can slim down traffic, air pollution and waistlines.

• To make more friends.  Joining a carpool or vanpool is an easy way to meet new people while commuting. Plus on days when commuters are not driving, they arrive to work less stressed. Commuters can get assistance finding carpool or vanpool partners who live and work nearby at LogYourCommute.org.

• To save money.  Taking transit reduces stress and helps commuters make better use of time and money. Using transit cuts costs in gas, vehicle maintenance and parking fees.

• To spend more time with family. Teleworking saves Georgia commuters up to an hour a day by eliminating a commute trip, which commuters can use to spend more time with family and friends.

In addition to money saved by choosing a clean commute, Commuter Rewards, a statewide commuter incentive program, offers money to reward commuters who ditch the solo drive, including $3 a day, up to $100, and gas cards worth up to $60 for carpools. To date, more than 85,000 Georgians have joined, earning cash, gift cards and gas cards.

“Not only do commute options help commuters put money back in their pockets, they also reduce air pollution and traffic congestion,” said Tedra Cheatham, executive director of The Clean Air Campaign, a nonprofit that aids Georgia commuters in finding solutions to their commuting needs. “By using our programs and tools to track their commute trips, commuters can see their progress toward saving money and helping the environment throughout the year.”

The financial and health benefits make clean commuting the perfect choice for a New Year’s resolution. Whether the goal is to get in shape, make new friends, balance the budget or reduce stress, The Clean Air Campaign and its partner organizations can help. Visit CleanAirCampaign.org for more information.