As bird chirps get a little bit louder and the sun lingers just a little bit longer, you know spring has arrived. Each spring is accompanied by Earth Day. The annual tradition, which began in 1970, is celebrated every April 22 to demonstrate support for positive environmental action.

More than one billion people all over the world participate in Earth Day activities. Joining in the celebration are the numerous public transit service providers across Riverside County. On Earth Day, these Riverside County service operators offer free rides to encourage residents to use the bus and train. By ditching the car keys and taking public transportation, you can help reduce traffic congestion while enjoying convenient methods of travel.

Whether you’re traveling for work, school, or leisure, take advantage of these free rides on Tuesday, April 22:

This Earth Day let’s do our part to drive positive action in our communities, no matter how big or small.

Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has become an international movement – encouraging people from all over the world to adopt more sustainable, environmentally-conscious routines. This Earth Day, and every day, RCTC strives to be a good environmental steward while delivering transportation infrastructure improvements and supporting public transportation.

On Monday, April 22, 2024, Riverside County residents are urged to take part in the broader effort to go green. Below are just a few examples of small, but mighty actions you can participate in this Earth Day.

Who doesn’t love FREE rides? Riverside County transit service providers will be offering free rides on Monday, April 22 to encourage sustainable travel options. Metrolink will be offering free rides across the entire network and will not require tickets. Just hop on the train and enjoy a leisurely ride to countless destinations across southern California or leave your car behind on your commute to work!

The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA) will be providing free rides on all fixed routes and GoMicro buses. SunLine Transit, Corona Cruiser, and Beaumont Transit will also be offering free rides during Earth Day.

Reduce your carbon footprint, avoid traffic, and earn incentives with IE Commuter! By joining a carpool or vanpool, commuters can streamline trips, reduce time spent in traffic, and win fun prizes. In 2023 alone, the popular program supported over 1,100 regional employers with ridesharing programs and helped reduce 10.7 million pounds of vehicle emissions.

For those who enjoy the great outdoors, there are numerous open spaces to enjoy the amazing natural landscapes in our own backyard. As the managing agency of the Western Riverside County Regional Conservation Authority, RCTC is helping implement the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) to establish a 500,000-acre habitat reserve in the western part of the county. Among the reserves, there are numerous recreational opportunities that feature hiking and bike paths, equestrian trails, and educational centers. To learn more, visit the RCA website.

For the little adventurer in the family, the RCA recently launched the 146 Project aimed at connecting students with nature and educating them about MSHCP-protected species in western Riverside County. Students in grades K-8 can complete fun activities to earn an exclusive fun patch. To learn more, please visit 146project.org.

Let’s do our part and make every day Earth Day.

Earth Day is a day of celebration, action, and reflection. RCTC and agency partners are helping our planet by providing and advocating for sustainable solutions in transportation and land conservation. Here’s how to get involved: