Green driving has been a trendy topic for a while now. Apart from driving a car that emits less CO2, there are a few easy things you can do whilst driving to further reduce your emissions. The trick is to reduce the amount of work your engine has to do. The less it has to work, the fewer the CO2 emissions, and the less fuel you’ll need to use.
Personal car travel produces 13 per cent of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions. It also contributes to local air pollution and congestion. The type of car you own, the way you drive it and the fuel you use can make a big difference to your impact on the environment.
Here are 6 great tips to help you become a greener driver.
Pump up your tyres
Make sure your tyres are inflated to the recommended pressure level. This will cut down the resistance your tyres endure while moving and your engine won’t have to work as hard.
Time to do some Spring cleaning
We all carry around un-needed items in our vehicle just in case. This creates extra weight that our car has to carry around. Unfortunately if you are determined to become the green type, you will have to get rid of your precious items to cut down both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Drive at the right speed
At 70 mph, you use 9% more fuel than at 60 mph, and up to 15% more than at 50 mph.
Avoid repetitive stops
Every time you stop then start again in a traffic queue, the engine uses more fuel and therefore produces more CO2. Keep an eye on the traffic ahead and slow down early by gently lifting your foot off the accelerator while keeping the car in gear.
Revving up wastes fuel and increases emissions
Revving up like a Formula 1 driver wastes fuel and emits more CO2. Try changing up a gear at a lower rpm. For petrol cars, try 2500rpm and 2000rpm for diesel cars.
Prolonged stationary periods with the engine running is wasteful too
When idling, your car is wasting fuel and still emitting CO2. So if you’re going to be at a standstill for more than three minutes, switch off your engine.
These tips can have a great impact on the environment and will also help you save a great deal of money!
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