Since time immemorial, automobiles have gotten a lot of flak from environmentalists and earth enthusiasts for contributing to air pollution.
However, notoriety and ill-reputation aside, there have been plenty of opportunities for sustainable and green driving. Apart from modern cars equipped with better fuel systems, there are also things you can do to ensure that you are driving sustainably. In this way, you can protect the environment when and while you drive. More importantly, green driving practices ensure sustainable energy consumption as well as reduce your carbon footprint. Above all, green and sustainable driving is economical, which means you can save a lot of money.
Below are some indispensable tips to drive sustainably, protect the environment and still get to where you need to be.
1.) Buy a fuel-efficient, low-emissions vehicle
An eco-friendly way to drive is to ensure that your automobile or vehicle is fuel-efficient. This means that the car you choose should emit the lowest amount of greenhouse gas possible. Fortunately, modern vehicles are made to be eco-friendly, and even better is that they are getting more affordable each year.
2.) Regularly maintain your car
A tip that will protect the environment and save you money, in the long run, is to ensure you keep up with regular automobile maintenance. Keep in mind that driving a well-maintained car is not only smoother and more efficient; it saves you money as well.
3.) Drive slower and smarter
Whenever you take your car out, always drive with purpose. Also, it is worth noting that your manner of driving also impacts your carbon footprint. That said, it is important to consider what you drive just as much as how you drive it. Improving your gas mileage and emitting less greenhouse gas can be done simply by avoiding hard accelerations and slamming the brakes abruptly. Make it a habit of never idling your car for more than thirty seconds. Similarly, consider removing heavy items from your vehicle when they are not in use.
4.) Give renewable fuels a try
Fuels made from renewable resources such as E85 and biodiesel are made from corn. E85 contains 85 percent ethanol and fifteen percent gasoline that can be used in certain vehicles. On the other hand, diesel vehicles can use biodiesel blends such as B5, which contains five percent biodiesel.
5.) Use the right kind of oil
It is easy to be tempted to buy the cheapest kind of oil. However, keep in mind that the type of oil you put in your vehicle affects overall performance and efficiency whenever you go for an oil change. Read up on your car’s auto manual and read the manufacturer’s recommendations. That said, use synthetic and environmentally-friendly motor oil in your engine as much as possible.
6.) Walk, bike, and take public transportation whenever possible
Give your cars a break every now and then and take the public transport. Alternatively, you can travel by other eco-friendly means such as walking and biking. Not only are you helping the environment, but you are giving yourself a healthy exercise as well. If the distance is manageable, opt to leave the car at home and take the bike or walk to your destination. In this way, you can significantly reduce your personal greenhouse gas emissions.
