Efficient Driving
Driving gas vehicles accounts for 30% of all emissions within the United States. Every time you drive your kids to school, go to work, or even get groceries, your vehicle burns fossil fuels. However, you can drive green, even without an eco-friendly car. Through these tips of driving smooth, planning, and keeping your car tuned, you will learn how to get where you're going faster and with less greenhouse gas emissions.
1. Stop Lights
We all hate traffic lights. While they help improve the safety of everyone, they slow us down. Instead of driving through small streets at low speeds, make an effort to drive on highways. Highways will speed you to your destination and use less fuel on the way. An ideal rate is 50 - 55 mph. Research in Germany has shown that "The greater the speed of vehicles in built-up areas, the higher is the incidence of acceleration, deceleration, and braking, all of which increase air pollution. Traffic calming reduces idle times by 15%, gear changing by 12%, brake use by 14%, and gasoline use by 12%." Driving excessively fast when traffic conditions do not allow this not only breaks the law and jeopardizes safety, but it also leads to more greenhouse gas emissions. You won't get anywhere, even if you go fast when the road traffic does not allow it. Instead, make an effort to stay at a steady speed and avoid accelerated or decelerating abruptly.
2. Planing
Planning is beneficial nearly everywhere, especially when it comes to driving. When you make an effort to decide where you are going and also select a faster route with less traffic - you reduce your emissions. When you plan, pack lighter. If you're going to work, try not to drag around an old box in your trunk. The EPA says that for every 100 pounds taken out of the vehicle, the fuel economy is increased by 1-2 percent. You can quickly reduce weight by only filling your tank half-full for shorter trips. But for any trip, make sure your car is maintained correctly.
3. Smart Driving
Driving techniques significantly reduce your emissions, but it's the health of your vehicle that matters the most. The Car Care Council (CCC) estimates that 2 billion gallons of gas could be saved every year if people only inflated their tires properly. CCC also determined that a new air filter could improve your car's fuel efficiency by 10%. When a gallon of gas emits 20 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) when burned, that means that 181 million tonnes of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. Keep your tire pressure within the manufacturer's range, typically 30 - 35 PSI. By regularly tuning your car, checking the tire pressure, and air filters, you can ensure a more environmentally sound ride.
With these small steps, you'll save money, time, and fuel along the way. Maybe we can get that 30% down to 15% if enough people change their practices. Next time you drive, don't rush ahead, we all have places to go.
