Cars have proven to be both a boon and a bane to modern day society. Carbon emissions are at an all-time high, and there is research showing that the Western and European countries are the largest contributors to this environment hazard. With more and more people becoming aware of the fact that going green is what is needed, the negative impact on nature can hopefully be reduced to a certain extent. If you are the owner of a car and you would like to do something to go green, here are some things that you can do to get started.
Options for the Green Driver: Hybrid, MPG & Green Fuel
If you are in the market for a car, then the best option for you would be a hybrid, which is today available as a two- or four-door. It is also available in SUV and luxury sedan varieties. Some of the advantages you can look forward to are better mileage with lower emissions. If you feel a hybrid is not really the thing for you, your next best option would be looking for a car with the right MPG, although, these are not as efficient. You could also opt for green fuels such as biodiesel, which is easily available. Vegetable oil is also an option for the green driver.
You can also adopt some green driving practices for your car, which has largely to do with fuel economy. Always drive within the prescribed limit, and try to avoid sudden starts and stops. Besides being hazardous, such driving can kill the mileage that your car has and can even result in unnecessary bumps and scrapes on the car. It is best to keep your car engine running between 1200 to 3000 RPMs, and when you are moving the gear upwards keep it between 2000 and 2500 RPMs.
Optimizing Your Vehicle To Contribute To A Eco-Friendly Environment
Regularly servicing your car will ensure that your air filters are clean. The advantage here is that you will burn a lesser amount of gas, pollute the environment less and prevent any sort of trouble with the workings of your car. Ensuring your tires have the right pressure in them is important. Similarly, getting rid of any junk you might be carrying in your boot will reduce the weight you are carrying and will help you economize your fuel consumption.
Additional Things One Can Do To Contribute To A Green Environment
A good practice would be to carpool. Find people who go in the same direction as you, and alternate between cars. Not only will you be saving gas, but with a lower number of vehicles on the road, there will be less pollution. You could also choose to use public transport on a few days or even drive part of the way to your destination and walk the remaining. This way you get your exercise as well.
Don’t always depend on the AC to keep you cool. On open roads, roll down the windows. Within the city, you could opt for solar powered fans and even reflective windshield shades to reduce the temperature inside the vehicle.
These are just some of the ways in which you can keep your car in great shape and also do your bit for the environment.
Featured images:
License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://www.depositphotos.com- License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://www.depositphotos.com
The author is a green champion and believes that it is on every person to make a change for a greener, better tomorrow.
