Although the price of petrol has gone down, it’s still not exactly a cheap commodity (OPEC certainly sees to that). With that in mind, I thought I’d offer a very pared down, simple list of things you can do to be friendly on the planet, as well as your wallet.
Buy a ‘green’ car
No car is hugely green. They are big, lunking things that require resources to build, maintain and service. However, how much of the old oil-based juice it drinks and the requisite emissions it produces can be controlled – to a certain degree. Modern cars can offer more mpg (but might not if you go for something sports-oriented) and are less harmful to the environment.
Cost to us: High
Cost to the environment: Medium (what happens to your old car? This is fine if it stays in use, not so good if it is scrapped)
Get your tyre pressures right
Tyres at the right pressure and in good nick can help you cut fuel consumption, lowering the amount of CO2 produced. Well looked-after tyres will last longer.
Cost to us: Very low
Cost to the environment: Low
Driving style
Harsh braking and frantic acceleration can cost you up to 30% more fuel than being sensible and reading the road. Smooth, consistent driving rewards you by lowering costs and emissions.
Cost to us: Low
Cost to the environment: Low
Walk more
Controversial this one, but it’s the small journeys you do every day that’ll drink your fuel up like you do your morning coffee. Try walking these short distances, or, if you must be on wheels, do what I did recently. Invest in a pedal bike.
Cost to us: Low
Cost to the environment: None
Car share
If you can, organise a car share at work or for any sort of club you attend. Having multiple people in the car is sensible and you’ll be reducing the amount of congestion on the road, as well as the emissions that are being chucked out into the environment.
Cost to us: It saves money
Cost to the environment: Lower than using multiple vehicles
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