Eco-friendly Driving Tips for 2013

Posted on Dec 27, 2012 in Sustainable Living & Sustainable Lifestyle by Contributing Writer 0 Comments

For drivers out there it can be hard to think about ways you can be more economical on the road, while also cutting your carbon footprint. As manufacturers become more aware of environmental issues, cars have evolved so that many now use technological advances in order to produce relatively clean combustion engines, fueled by gas, or diesel, or in some instances both. Owners can additionally reduce emissions, and costs, at an individual level, without spending a large amount of money trading in existing vehicles. Here are some eco-friendly driving tips for 2013 that will ensure your driving habits become greener.

Consider Public Transportation

Remove the stress of driving through chaotic and congested traffic by switching to public transportation. This is particularly relevant for owners who live in the city since traveling during rush hour can be incredibly time consuming, involving a high level of concentration, which could be put to better use during your working day. Although train travel can be costly, you can generally buy season and monthly passes to make life easier, plus you will be saving on fuel costs which are continually growing. Riding your bike or walking could also improve your health massively – even around 30 minutes of walking in a day can stop you gaining weight.

Car sharing is another excellent way to be kinder to the environment – if there are several of you commuting to the office from similar areas, why not consider traveling together? Taking it in turns to do the driving should boost morale and also improve team spirit amongst employees.

Eco-friendly vehicles

Hybrids and electric vehicles are becoming ever more popular and all manufacturers now have to abide by the EU laws regarding CO2 emissions. Drivers who are found to be using vehicles with high levels of noxious gases are penalized through road tax charges. Some companies are also working to reduce their CO2 emissions in the manufacturing process, which is often over looked when buying a car.

Gas hybrids use a fuel-efficient gas engine while the main power is supplemented by an electric engine. Plug-in hybrids are additionally available on the market and electric vehicles are deemed cost-effective. Trading your car in for an eco-friendly version could save you money in the long-run, so it might just be worth it.

Change your driving habits

It may be tempting to break speed limits, particularly on the motorway, however you are actually costing yourself money since most cars run at their most efficient at 60mph. Think carefully about the way you drive and analyze situations. Approach hazards with care in order to reduce sharp braking and avoid accelerating too quickly. Drivers should also remove weighty objects such as bike racks when they are not in use.

Overall it is easy to make small changes in order to ensure your driving habits are more eco-friendly for 2013.

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