I commend you for geocaching for 5 years and 200 cache finds without driving. How did you manage it?
The OP never said to avoid *all* driving.
The solution is to find caches near where you are, or combine cache drives with other errands when possible.
I read the OP as calling into question the practices of high numbers cachers, and I too would like to hear their defense.
Why do they need to defend it?
How many of the caches the OP found were put there and maintained by people that drove cars to get there?
I drive to get mine. But what I like to do is find a spot I can look for a large number of caches from one parking spot. I like to drive near some caches and then I hike to get as many as I can. I have hiked as far as 8.5 kms from my parking spot (round trip). I want to go back next year and do the full 30 kms.
I have also searched for some on my way home from work or on the way to or back from shopping. But I have went out and drove to locations just to geocache. I own a vehicle because I want to get places when I need or want to.
I don't think it is all that bad. I also feel that if it wasn't for cars, it wouldn't have become as big as it it now.
James