Eco-Friendly Driving: How to be Greener

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average passenger vehicle produces an incredible 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. 

In addition to emitting CO2, vehicles will also produce nitrous oxide and methane from their tailpipe, which can contribute to global warming.

While car manufacturers have a part to play in protecting the planet, drivers also have a duty to embrace eco-friendly driving. 

If you want to become part of the solution instead of the problem, find out how to be greener when driving a car.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance cannot extend your car's lifespan, but it could take the pressure off a vehicle. Improving your car's efficiency will improve your fuel consumption. 

For example, you must routinely check your tires and ensure they are inflated to their recommended pressure. If you do so, you could decrease your fuel consumption by between 3 to 4%.

Carpool to Work

Do you travel the same route as your colleagues to work? If so, leave one of your vehicles at home and carpool to work, which is better for your bank balance and the environment. 

By sharing a ride, you'll lower the amount of pollution in the air, which can create a healthier environment for everyone.

Remove Junk from Your Vehicle

Many drivers are guilty of transporting junk from A to B each day, which can increase your daily fuel consumption. 

By throwing away unwanted items in the trash and removing unnecessary belongings, you can reduce weight from the vehicle and improve your fuel economy. 

Also, if you have a roof rack you're not using, remove it from the vehicle to support its aerodynamics and save fuel.

Switch to an Electric Car

Various research has found that electric cars are kinder to the environment compared to diesel and petrol vehicles. 

The modern cars reportedly produce less greenhouse gases and air pollutants and are, therefore, a cleaner alternative. 

Plus, you can even install an electric car charger on your property to power a vehicle.

Don't Use the Air Conditioner

It might be tempting to turn on a vehicle's air conditioner on a hot summer's day. However, that blast of cold air can force your engine to work much harder, which can lead to it consuming more fuel. 

To avoid feeling warm and sticky, open your windows an hour before travel and while you drive.

You also could:

• Use a window visor

• Park in a shaded area (such as under a tree or in your garage)

• Buy a solar fan

Stop Idling

If you haven't heard of the term idling, it is when a driver keeps the vehicle's engine running when it isn't moving. 

This action can not only waste both fuel and money, but it can also contribute to global warming and your car's wear and tear. 

If you're planning to stop for more than 10 seconds, you should turn your engine off. The only exception to this rule is when you're stuck in traffic.

Focus on Smooth Acceleration

A heavy foot on the accelerator pedal can burn a significant amount of fuel, which is harmful to the planet. 

For this reason, you must put your foot down lightly when accelerating and maintain a steady, constant speed. 

You also should focus on the road ahead to anticipate braking and gradually stopping your car.