Efficient Driving Tips: Reducing Emissions and Saving Money

More than 30 percent of the emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere come from transportation. Therefore, every person can make a significant contribution to reducing emissions by taking all possible measures to reduce the use of their vehicles, by keeping their vehicles in good operating condition and by driving efficiently. In addition to helping the environment, you will save money and your vehicle will last longer.

Select the Most Efficient Vehicle You Can

When thinking about purchasing a vehicle, you can consider hybrids, electric vehicles, and those that operate on biodiesel. There are tax credits available for vehicles that use alternative sources of fuel.

Among vehicles that use only gasoline, you can compare the mileage you can achieve with the different makes and models, and purchase the most efficient vehicle. You should also consider the size of the vehicle and purchase one that meets, but not exceeds your needs. Smaller vehicles tend to use less gasoline and less materials in their production, therefore they contribute less wastes and emissions in the manufacturing process.

In the website www.fueleconomy.gov of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency there is a tool for comparing different vehicles, according to make, model and year, in terms of gas mileage, estimated annual fuel cost, carbon footprint, and an air pollution score.

Limit Your Use of the Vehicle

The best way to limit the emissions from a vehicle is to use it less. Advances in technology to make vehicles more efficient will not be enough if their use continues to grow.

Limiting the use of a vehicle involves day-to-day decisions, for example whether to walk or drive your vehicle to the nearest store to buy something you need at the moment, as well as aspects of a broader scope that involve your lifestyle, such as where to live with respect to the place where you work.

When possible, you can walk or use a bicycle to get to places within reach, rather than using your vehicle.