We live in an age where we are all aware of the harmful impact that driving has on the environment, but it has become a necessary evil that we are unwilling to sacrifice. Until there is an affordable and realistic solution which allows for zero-emission driving, emissions are a fact of life. However, there are certain things that can be done to minimise your emissions, no matter how old or what type of vehicle you have.
Tyre pressure
If your tyres aren’t properly inflated, your fuel consumption will rise at an alarming weight. And more fuel used = more CO2 emissions. In fact, some experts say that if your tyres are underinflated by 10%, you will use 10% more fuel. With the high fuel prices we are currently experiencing, it’s not just the environment that will benefit from your tyre pumping; 10% is a significant saving (and if your tyres happen to be underinflated by 20%, you’ll save 20% by pumping them up).
Premium fuel
The different grades of fuel aren’t just a way of making more money; they really are different. Premium petrol is higher octane, which means that they perform better than the standard variety, and premium diesel is higher cetane. Over time, not only do you get more miles to the gallon, but your engine is cleaner therefore more efficient.
Slow down
One of the best ways to reduce CO2 emissions is to switch up your driving style. Instead of whizzing from A to B, take it a little easier. In fact, make it a challenge to use your brake as little as possible (safely!). If you focus on minimising braking, you will take your foot off the pedal sooner at the sight of a traffic, lights, or a cross roads, which will automatically save on fuel.
Focus on maintenance
Getting your car serviced regularly will help you to keep your engine in tip top working condition. Make sure you check in with your local garage about regular oil changes, too, to keep your engine well lubricated and running smoothly.
Streamline your silhouette
Anything that causes drag will slow you down without you noticing it, because your car will just work a little harder. Roof boxes are a definite no-no; remove them when they are not in use (it will protect them from wear and tear, too). If you have roof rails or bars, remove them whenever possible to keep your lines sleek and aerodynamic.
Switch off
Stuck in traffic? Switch off the engine. Many modern vehicles will switch off automatically as soon as you start idling, but if you have a slightly older car and your best guess is that you will be waiting stationary for more than 9 seconds, switch off the engine. If everyone did that, the impact would be massive.
If you notice that your car is especially thirsty, it may be worth looking at the above points to see if there is anything that you can change, or take your car to your local garage for a check over and an oil change. Was this useful? Follow us on Facebook or Twitter.