Cars cause pollution, of that there is no doubt. Unfortunately most of us need to use our cars or vans for either work or pleasure. So if you have to drive, try and do so in the most eco-friendly way possible. If you are serious about cutting your CO2 emissions and reducing your carbon footprint follow these simple rules and help make the difference.
If you are a company operating vans look at putting your drivers through a course such as the nationally recognised SAFED scheme (Safe and Fuel efficient Driving). Subsidies for training are available from the Department of Transport to encourage companies to carry out this training. For more details contact us or go to www.safed.org.
We can use the same sort of training to help you save money on cars both company and private. Subsidies are not available for cars but training costs will easily be offset by the savings made.
With a little effort it is easier than you think. So to save money, reduce emissions and improve your carbon footprint follow these simple instructions.
Before the Journey
- Reduce the weight of your car. Take out any excess luggage and remove things like roof racks when they are not needed.
- Ensure your tyres are inflated to the proper level
- Have your car serviced at regular intervals by a qualified mechanic.
- Try to avoid shorter journeys. Catalytic converters are also only effective for journeys over 5 miles. Organise your journey to do as many tasks in the one journey.
- Plan your routes. Getting lost will cause you to use more fuel than necessary.
- Move off straight away as sitting with your car idling will use more fuel.
- Car share wherever possible
During the Journey
- Accelerate smoothly; pulling away too fast uses up to 60% more fuel than necessary.
- Avoid harsh braking, plan ahead
- Avoid using air conditioning. It uses up to 15% more fuel. All car electronics will use more fuel.
- Change gear at about 2000 revs for a petrol engine and 2500 for diesel.
- Switch your engine off when in stationary traffic. You use more fuel with the engine idling for 45 seconds than if you switched off and restarted 45 seconds later.
- Keep your windows and sunroof shut when travelling at speed. Open the air vents instead.
Extra advice
- If you are about to change your car go for a more fuel efficient model. Diesel cars give you better MPG values. Hybrid cars produce the least emissions. Choose the vehicle most suited to the purpose needed.
- Think about taking some extra training in more fuel-efficient driving techniques.
- If you are a company look into the savings that could be made by putting your drivers forward for a driver training course. You will save money and reduce emissions.
- Monitor your mpg. If you see any large changes it may mean something is wrong and needs attention.
