Die Mannschaft is “The Team”
With a name like Die Mannschaft (German for “The Team”) this Clear the Air Challenge team was destined for success. Coupled with the fact that this team is just that – a couple – and you have a perfect combination of motivation and team spirit.
“Air quality is a big issue for us,” says Ericka Rock, one half of the two member team. “We feel it is extremely important to live in and breathe clean air. If we all used our legs a little more, we could make a big difference both locally and globally.”
Die Mannschaft is the perfect example of how a little planning and support can go a long way towards clearing the air.
Every week the dedicated couple plans out their weekly travel schedules in order to allow enough time to choose an alternative to driving alone. Weekly plans are set together on Sundays, and re-evaluated daily to allow for flexibility.
The couple uses a wide variety of TravelWise strategies to drive down their miles, although the two strategies most often used are active transportation (biking and walking) and taking public transit.
“Although these modes of transportation take a little more time, the extrinsic benefits are wonderful!” said Rock. “We have been able to read, exercise and relax during our commute.”
By participating in the Clear the Air Challenge, the couple – who do own a car – have found it to be much easier than they thought to live without one. According to Rock, “We find joy in leaving our car in the garage for as many days as possible.”
Ericka and Kurt - the Die Mannschaft team
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