Many people spend so much time in their cars, from commuting to work, shopping for groceries, and going on a family road trip. While these are necessary life activities, they can be taxing on the environment. Cars contribute greatly to climate change globally, and recent US research suggests that a typical passenger vehicle emits around 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. If you want to join the climate change crusade and make the environment healthier, consider the tips below to reduce your car’s carbon footprint.
1. Drive mindfully
A bit of mindful driving can significantly reduce your pollution. It requires being a smarter driver and being more mindful. For instance, avoid driving during rush hour when you can wait for a while. After all, nobody enjoys sitting in traffic, and you’ll do your gas mileage a lot of favors. Likewise, consider your errands and trips. Could you combine them to make fewer errands? You can also reduce your carbon footprint by driving lightly. A FuelEconomy.gov study suggests that an additional 100 pounds in your car may cause around 1% MPG reduction. You may believe that you need to “warm up” the vehicle in the morning or leave it running as you wait briefly for someone. But it is better to avoid this entirely.
2. Keep your auto in great shape
It is terrible to see a car at the red light spewing thick smoke from its exhaust or leaving old marks on the tarmac. You can do a few simple maintenances to enhance your vehicle’s performance and efficiency, including changing oil and fuel filters. However, depending on the fuel or oil leak and the damage to your head gasket, you may require an engine replacement. Simple maintenance, like replacing malfunctioning oxygen sensors, can increase your gas mileage by up to 40%. The EPA estimates that the CO2 emissions from the combustion of one petrol gallon are 8,887 grams of CO2. Keeping your automobile in good condition may enhance your MPG and help you lower your carbon impact.
3. Go green
Electric and hybrid vehicles use electricity as fuel, which means lower emissions than their gasoline-powered cousins. Moreover, when charged with clean energy from renewable sources, electric automobiles emit no CO2. Utilizing cleaner fuels and driving a fuel-efficient automobile also helps. Certain fuels can lower dioxide emissions by up to 80% compared to gasoline. Depending on your location, switching to an EV may cost you nothing. It is no surprise that car producers and automotive-tech corporations find new ways to improve cars and the driving experiences for a greener world. Would you rather not support the movement?
4. Consider alternative car solutions
Driving may be the most popular mode of transportation in the US, but there are numerous alternatives and environmentally friendlier options you can consider. For instance, walking or riding an electric or mechanical bicycle is an alternative mode of transport that is environmentally friendly and offers many health benefits. Riding a bicycle rather than driving reduces your carbon footprint instantly. You can also take public transport or the train to lower your carbon emissions.
