The trains are also powered by electricity (a renewable resource), which makes them just a little slower than the bullet trains that go all the way to Madrid.
Of course, the most environmentally-friendly was to get around is on foot. It produces no pollution, it's great exercise and you get the added benefit of being able to see more of the city.
Being able to catch the occasional ride to and from school with my colleagues is good for the overall community of teachers as it helps us feel connected and get to know each other. In Spain, the teachers are employed by the local government (not an individual school), so every year they are in new schools with new students and in new villages. So the rides are important when it comes to creating community within the school and also helping the new teaching assistants (like me!) feel welcomed into the school.
