Driving is a necessity for many people, but it’s also a major source of pollution. While we know this, most of us don’t think there’s anything we can really do about it. After all, buying an electric or hybrid vehicle isn’t something most of us can just do without serious, long-term planning, no matter how much we want to help the planet. Fortunately, there are still little things you can do to lower the amount of pollution you’re responsible for and lessen the impact your car has on the environment. Remember, habits have a bigger, longer-lasting impact than just adopting the latest technology.
3 Eco-Friendly Driving Tips
Tip #1: Use Cruise Control
Nothing kills your vehicle’s fuel efficiency faster than stop-and-go driving. Whether it’s the constant slowing down for traffic or dealing with shifting speed limits, your car operates more efficiently if you can pick a speed and stick with it. Cruise control is your friend and it will save you money, as well as cut down on wasted gas, and increased emissions.
Tip #2: Preventative Maintenance is Key
If you want to keep your car as green as possible, you need to make sure it’s running smoothly. Change the oil, keep the tires inflated to their ideal levels, change the air filter and make sure you don’t ignore any rattles or clanks. The harder your car has to work to get you from A to B, the more fuel it will take, and the more carbon monoxide your car is pumping from the tail pipe.
Tip #3: Don’t Idle
Whether it’s “warming up” your car on a frigid morning or sitting at a train crossing, letting your car idle is bad for your fuel tank, your pocket-book, and the environment. If you’re parked and waiting for someone, shut off your car. Five minutes of idling burns a lot of gas and if you eliminate all the idling from your life, you’d be amazed at how much less pollution you’re responsible for.
These are just a few, simple ways you can cut down on the pollution your car generates. For more great eco-friendly life hacks and living tips, though, simply contact us today!