How to drive in a more eco-friendly way
Looking to reduce your carbon footprint when you drive? Most drivers will be aware of the harmful effects it can have on the environment with more than 50% of all transport emissions coming from cars according to data collected in 2020. However, there are many ways that you can become a more eco-conscious driver and ensure your driving isn’t damaging the environment as much in the future.
If you’re not sure how to do this, then this is the guide for you. Read on to discover five ways you can drive in a more eco-friendly way.
Go electric
Electric vehicles have taken the world by storm in recent years and are no doubt the future of the automotive industry with new solely fuel-based cars to be banned from being made in 2035. This is excellent news for the environment with fully-electric vehicles producing no carbon emissions while they run. Plus, the technology is improving every year, which means charge times are getting shorter and battery capacity is getting bigger.
Drive consistently
Consistent driving is a must for greater fuel efficiency. This means trying to slow down naturally instead of slamming on the brakes, avoiding cornering at high speeds and you should accelerate more gently.
Your fuel economy isn’t the only benefit of driving this way either as your car insurance quote might take your driving style into account, so proving you’re a responsible driver could save you money as well.
Plan the route
Don’t leave your route to chance and make sure to plan your routes ahead of time, so you know where you’re going. Not only will this get you to your location faster but you should also avoid getting lost, so you shouldn’t have to keep your engine running for as long. This means you can save time, money and reduce carbon emissions, so it simply must be done.
Reduce your usage
It might sound obvious but reducing your road usage is one of the easiest ways to become a more eco-friendly driver. Try to use public transport if you’re heading into the centre to reduce congestion in busy areas or walk to your destination if it’s close by. These shorter trips can be the most detrimental to the environment, so cutting them out is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
Ensure tyres are properly inflated
Checking your tyre pressure before a long journey is a must if you want to ensure an eco-friendly journey. Under-inflated tyres are one of the biggest causes of high carbon emissions as your car has to work harder to move. Your vehicle handbook will tell you what the pressure should be, so make sure they always match that for the most fuel-efficient performance.
