How Drivers Can Help the Environment

Your driving habits matter when it comes to the environment. Every trip we take leaves a mark.

However, that doesn’t mean we can’t drive smarter and greener.

Whether your car is essential for the daily commute or you only use it at the weekends for errands, adopting an eco-friendly habit can help in reducing your carbon footprint

It can also work towards saving money and lengthening the longevity of your vehicle.

Help the Environment - Drive Smarter, Not Harder

The way that we drive does have an impact on the amount of fuel that a vehicle consumes.

We can try to minimise this with some little adjustments:

• Avoid harsh braking and quick acceleration. If you engage in smooth driving, this lowers the amount of fuel used by the vehicle. As the engine must work harder. So more careful and considerate driving helps to lower the level of emissions expelled.
• Stick to the speed limit. Speeding burns more fuel. As speeding up increases fuel consumption – due to the fact it increases air resistance. So slowing down can help both the environment and your bank balance in the long run.
• Switch your car off. If you are not driving, it is best to turn off your engine. Especially if you’re stationary for more than a minute. Many modern cars to this automatically now, but it is good practise to ensure you are doing this yourself if your car does not switch off automatically.

Maintain Your Vehicle for Greener Driving

Maintaining your vehicle is not only important for your safety on the road but is also works towards environmentally friendly. Regular checks and fixes can help to ensure your keep your emissions down – or at least at the level they were intended by the manufacturer.

Important checks include:

• Check your tyre pressure regularly. An under inflated tyre will reduce the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Regular tyre pressure checks, and top ups of air pressure as required, are important. So keep them at the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
• Keep your engine tuned. Annual car servicing of your car, alongside regular oil changes and air filter replacements help to ensure your car runs efficiently. A regular service also helps to spot any potential issues early on.
• Recycle responsibly. If you have to dispose of oil, batteries, or coolant, make sure that you do so properly at a recycling centre that is capable of handling these materials.

Focus on Your Tyres

As we’ve briefly touched upon above, your car tyres play a vital role in the environmental performance of your vehicle. By keeping your tyres in good condition, you can help to save fuel and reduce emissions.

One of the key aspects is proper tyre pressure. If your tyres do not have the correct air pressure for your vehicle, this will increase rolling resistance. Forcing your car to use more fuel.

Check pressures monthly and before long trips.

When it comes to tyre choice, there are some tyres that have been developed to reduce rolling resistance. Look for low rolling resistance or energy-saving tyres when replacing yours. The tyre labelling scores are a good first check for this.

Not directly related to the tyres, but a misaligned wheel can cause uneven tyre wear and increase fuel consumption.

Have your alignment checked if you notice your car pulling to one side or you experience shuddering through the driving wheel.

Plan Your Journeys

Thoughtful planning of your journeys can minimise any unnecessary mileage and, therefore, emissions.

There are plenty of apps or services online that can give you information on the journey you aim to take – including traffic and delays. Use these to best avoid heavy traffic and to choose the most fuel-efficient way.

If you are able to carpool when you go to work, this can help reduce the number of cars on the road. Less cars ultimately equates to less emissions.

Alternatively, if it is feasible for you, you can leave the car at home. Is it possible to walk, cycle, or use public transport for your trip?

These options can be better not just for your environment— but also your health.

Lighten Your Load

Extra weight and drag can make your car work harder than it needs to.

For example, if you do not need them but currently have them installed, remove roof racks and boxes. I get it; it can be a pain to remove the racks after every holiday, but it’s best to only use them when necessary to improve your car’s aerodynamics.

Similarly, make sure to empty your boot so you are not carrying around unnecessary items that add weight. This all adds up to reduce fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

Consider Electric Vehicles

This can still be a bit of a controversial subject for some people. But, if you’re wanting to make a bigger change, the possibility of switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is an impactful way to drive sustainably.

EVs produce no emissions directly when driving, significantly reducing air pollution. They are also a good option for lower running costs.

Drivers Can Help the Environment: Small Changes, Big Impact

With some little changes here and there, and some new regular habits, it is possible that you can contribute to a healthier planet.

It doesn’t have to be a big grand sweeping change to being with. Start small—i.e. check your tyres, plan your routes, and drive mindfully.

And, possibly, when the time comes, consider making the switch to an EV.

Together, we can all steer towards a more sustainable future.