With rising fuel costs and increasing concern over climate change, it’s in everyone’s best interest to make sure the impact of cars on the environment is limited. But being a greener driver doesn’t mean giving up your car, or switching to a hybrid. It all comes down to fuel and engine efficiency.
Here are some of our top tips for becoming a greener driver:
Telecommute
This one is kind of obvious, but the best way to be a green driver is to stay off the roads when possible. Instead of commuting to work every day of the week, try to make an arrangement with your company to telecommute for the odd day. Even one or two days a month will make a difference.
Keep your load light
While you may not be able to get out of helping your friends move, keeping heavy hauls to a minimum will make you a greener driver. A weighed down car is one that uses more fuel to get from A to B, so try to avoid trunk-heavy trips as much as possible. Additionally, keep your car clean of junk, which may be adding extra and unnecessary weight.
Regular maintenance
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this is especially true when it comes to the maintenance of your vehicle. By getting regular oil changes and other tune up work, your engine will run more efficiency, causing less pollution for the environment.
Drive at a steady pace
Speeding is never a good idea, but if you need another incentive aside from safety to slow down on the roads, consider fuel efficiency. Accelerating slowly will save on gas, and driving just 10 kilometres an hour slower than usual (60 instead of that usual 70) can save up to 25% of your vehicle’s normal fuel consumption.
Inflate tires
When you perform regular maintenance, don’t forget your tires. They should be properly aligned and inflated to avoid burning excess fuel.
Alternative fuels
Have you thought about giving up gasoline? There are a few alternatives available that are better for the environment, including biodiesel or ethanol.
Of course, there are always the old standbys of choosing to carpool, bike, walk, and take transit to your destination. The best bet is to combine all of them!
We’d love to hear your tips for becoming a greener driver. What do you do daily to lessen your impact on the environment?