Driving Green

February 5, 2009, 1:46 pm betterhomesgardens

Rating:

For every litre of petrol used, 2.3kg of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere, according to the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV).

Even if you don't drive a 'green' car, you can still use your vehicle in a more environmentally friendly way.

Obviously, cutting down on car use whenever you can - for example, walking to the shops - is a great idea. By servicing your car regularly, you'll reduce the amount of fuel it consumes and greenhouse gases it produces. You can also join Greenfleet, www.greenfleet.com.au

For a small cost, they'll plant 17 native trees on your behalf to absorb the annual greenhouse emissions produced by your car. Here are lots of other practical ways you can use less fuel.

How to cut your fuel use

1. Accelerate gently and don't rev unnecessarily.
2. Be aware of traffic conditions ahead so you can avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking.
3. Steer clear of excessive speeds. By travelling at 100km/h instead of 110km/h, you can reduce fuel consumption by 10 per cent.
4. Avoid lengthy idling - turn off your car instead.
5. Keep your tyres properly inflated.
6. Use air-conditioning sparingly. It can increase fuel consumption by 5-10 per cent - particularly on hot days - but at high speeds, air-conditioning is better than an open window.
7. Minimise wind resistance. Remove roof racks and other attachments when not in use.
8. Remove unnecessary weight from your car.

Johanna Griggs Picks

Our Brands

  • Home Beautiful
  • Better Basics
  • Diabetic living
  • Gardens

Follow us on pinterest

Follow us on pinterest