Caring for the environment on the road

Most people will know already that driving has a huge effect on the environment, and as people are becoming acutely aware of their ever-growing carbon footprint, it is time to make some changes.

However, any changes you make do need to be in moderation. We can’t all just stop driving, and that be the end of cars and travel, but what you can do is to change the way you drive which will not only help the environment but will also benefit you too. So, what can you do?

Do regular check-ups of your vehicle

It’s important to keep an eye on your motor, and you can make small changes to what you use, for example, use energy-conserving grades of motor oil. Maintain your car to keep it working efficiently. Keep your tyres properly inflated and aligned, fill up on fuel during cooler evening hours to reduce evaporation and change air and oil filters regularly

Choose a vehicle carefully

It’s important to do your research and find the right car for you and your family. While it is well known that electric vehicles are much cleaner to run than petrol- or diesel-engine vehicles, they are also now the only option.

You can look for a car that emits low levels of pollution, which is also going to be fuel-efficient and will make your money go further – meaning fewer trips to the petrol station.

Start by having a look at this database provided by the Vehicle Certification Agency to identify five-year-old petrol-powered cars with the lowest levels of CO2 emissions. Also if you are interested in electric cars, then Richard Curzon has looked at the newest range of cars available on the UK market today.

Drive carefully

The way you drive has an effect on the environment and driving smoothly is the best thing you can do. Sharp acceleration, heavy braking and stop-go driving will use more fuel to it are far more beneficial to you and the environment to stay at smooth and steady as possible.

Don’t leave the engine running

Make sure you switch off your engine if you’re stationary for more than a couple of minutes. Also, think ahead and plan your route so you can avoid roadworks and congestion, meaning that you won’t be stationary unnecessarily.

Then drive off as soon as possible after you start the engine as modern cars don’t need to warm up and accelerate gradually. Then maintain the speed limit, and use cruise control on the motorway.

Carpool

Share the driving. If you live near someone you work with then share the driving. Or, even better if you can walk, walk! If you can take public transport, do it or get on your bike!

Final thoughts

Now, these really go without saying, but a few final tips to note are that you should try where you can to combine your errands into one trip and park centrally, walking as much as possible. Also, never throw rubbish out of your vehicle as you drive, find a bin. Finally, don’t forget to recycle used motor oil, antifreeze, filters, batteries and tyres.

** This is a collaborative post