The invention of the car changed the way of modern life. Individuals were able to live in the suburbs, work in metropolitan areas, and travel across country without relying on railroad systems. But the automobile, which is known for comfort and convenience, has become one of the largest threats to the environment. With just one pound of gasoline measuring up to about 20 pounds of CO2, it is easier to understand how 20% of all greenhouse emissions in the United States are produced by private passenger vehicles. With greater environmental awareness, more and more of the population is looking for a way to reduce their impact on the environment. The best place to start is to make your car more "green".
Keep Your Car in Tune
Tune-ups and regular vehicle maintenance can make a huge difference. Not only will oil changes, tire balancing, and tune-ups extend the life of your vehicle, they will also make your car use gas more efficiently. This means that you will get more mileage, reduce your fuel budget, and pollute less without reducing the number of miles you drive on a monthly basis.
Use Your AC Less
There is nothing like feeling the ice cold AC blow on your face in hot 100 degree weather. If it is warm but not uncomfortably hot, choose to roll down your windows and enjoy the fresh air. There are a number of ways that you can use your AC less. Try parking in shaded areas of parking lots or have an electric fan installed in the car. You might ask "why consider car window tinting and instant windscreens?". The simple answer is, you can keep the internal temperature of your car low so you are not forced to turn on the AC and burn more gas than you need to.
Fill Your Tires
Did you know that under-inflated tires can make your car more of a fuel hog? Statistics show that if every tire in the U.S. was inflated properly the nation could save more than 2 billion gallons of gas. Take your care to a tire shop or check your manual to look for the proper tire pressure.
Lose the Weight
Heavier cars do not get the best gas mileage, but instead of cutting out your bench seats, consider unloading all of the items you have sitting in your trunk. The books, toys, and golf clubs can add up over time. Rather than having no car at all, find ways to upgrade your car to make it more environmentally- friendly. Just a few minor changes can make your car more efficient and less of a polluter. Just because you are passing emissions tests does not mean your car is green. Consider this tips and reduce your
carbon footprint.
