There’s a lot of pressure these days on everyone to start living their lives in a more environmentally friendly way. One of the major factors to having a less than acceptable carbon footprint is the various modes of transport we use, whether it’s cars or planes. Many people worry about the environment and what we’re doing to it. But it’s also true that many people need their cars to get around. In some places, public transport or non-motorized alternatives such as bicycles are an option. But for many they need their car to carry out their daily activities. However, you can continue to drive in a responsible way, conscious of reducing your carbon emissions. Greener driving often saves you money too. So it benefits you immediately as well as helping the future of the planet.
Change Cars
One of the most effective ways to be a greener driver is to drive a more fuel-efficient car. If you’re rolling around in a gas-guzzling monster, it’s going to be difficult to curb your fuel consumption. For your next car, consider buying something that’s more efficient, with more miles to the gallon. Some vehicles have economy modes too, so you can cruise comfortably and save your gas. Another option is a hybrid, which combines gas and electricity to save on gas when it you don’t need it. And soon cars run purely on electricity could be more easily available. If you can’t afford a new car, buying used cars is another part of green driving. Reusing and recycling is a big part of being eco-friendly, but you should still check the fuel efficiency of the car you buy.
Use Alternative Fuel
Not yet ready to trade in your car? You could also use alternative fuels, instead of gasoline or diesel. Biodiesel, made from oils and fats, is one option that works for diesel engines. There are downsides, however, and it can make your car smell like whatever the biodiesel is made from. Although biodiesel is more eco-friendly, the mileage you get from it is lower than normal diesel. You also often have to make the fuel yourself, as it isn’t readily available everywhere you go. One alternative to gasoline is ethanol, but unlike biodiesel you can’t use it for any gas engine. Although ethanol is more convenient than biodiesel and is a renewable fuel, there are still issues concerning how ethical it is. Producing it uses a lot of energy, and it must be transported in large trucks. Additionally, due to farmers selling crops to ethanol producers, it may contribute to rising food prices.
Carpool
If you can’t change your car or the fuel you put into it, consider sharing it with other people. Many people need a car to get to work, but isn’t it silly for five different people to be driving their own car with no passengers? Perhaps you and your colleagues could get together to arrange a rota for your daily commute or you could drop off your neighbors on your way to work. You can drive long distances communally too. If you’re driving across the country, there’s bound to be someone who needs a ride.