The journey to work or the weekend drive to the countryside can be more than just a daily routine. It’s a chance to make a difference.
By choosing sustainable commuting practices, motorists can play a key role in reducing environmental impact. Small changes in driving behaviour can lead to significant benefits for the environment, cutting down on emissions and leaving a healthier planet for future generations.
Never leave dogs in (even warm) cars, as temperatures quickly heat up (even with air-con – same for glass conservatories).
If you see a dog in a hot car, smash the window, move the animal to a shady area and apply cool (not cold) water and call the vet, RSPCA and police. Likely dog guardians will feel too guilty to charge you with criminal damage (they will hopefully thank you).
Also read tips on making roads safer for wildlife.
Environmental Impact of Car Travel
Driving is a major part of modern life, but it’s also a significant source of pollution. Cars emit carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. In fact, vehicles account for about one-fifth of all emissions, making them a considerable source of pollution.
The type of vehicle you drive plays a big role in the amount of emissions it produces. Petrol and diesel engines are the main culprits, with larger vehicles typically emitting more carbon than smaller ones. Electric cars, on the other hand, produce no emissions during operation, making them a cleaner choice for the eco-conscious driver.
You can’t have a ‘green car’ but you can drive less and make simple swaps. Read Cutting Your Car Use, a great little book on recycled paper with fun illustrations and 100 simple tips. The author is England’s first traffic reduction consultant (she walks most places, uses a folding bike, and now and then takes a taxi or hires a car).
Driving in cities and towns differs from rural driving. Urban journeys often involve more idling and stop-start traffic, increasing emissions. In contrast, rural roads can offer a smoother drive with fewer stops, but longer distances may mean more fuel consumption overall. Adjusting your driving style to suit the environment can help lower your carbon footprint wherever you are.
Practical Tips for Greener Driving
Keep your vehicle in top shape. Regular servicing can improve fuel efficiency by ensuring that tyres are properly inflated, engines are well-tuned, and oil changes are up to date. A well-maintained car runs more efficiently and uses less fuel, resulting in fewer emissions.
Antifreeze is lethal to pets & wildlife, so let your mechanic change it in an enclosed space. If you do change it yourself, use a funnel (as with oil) and use sand or kitty litter to absorb spills (don’t mop).
- Click Mechanic lets you book vetted local mechanics for repairs, services & MOTs. They don’t have high overheads so prices are good.
- Use a windscreen cover over toxic de-icers (parking your car east will defrost the screen early morning). Or rub half an onion on the screen the night before (the oil lines the glass to stop freezing – keep onions away from pets).
- Switch to a waterless biodegradable car wash (good for the planet and also helps to avoid exploitation of migrants who often are employed at ‘supermarket car wash’ outlets).
Do Checks (before buying used cars)
- If buying a used car, AA has tips on what to watch out for. This includes ‘cut-and-shut (two damaged cars welded together), cloning (replacing number plates) and clocking (adjusting mileage).
- Don’t check cars in the rain (water hides dents and scratches) and insist on seeing service history and V5C vehicle registration document.
- ETA (Environmental Transport Association) offers vehicle inspection checks (plus eco-friendly insurance/breakdown cover).
- Learn how to donate your scrap car to charity. Scrap metal is sold to benefit your favourite cause. Fill in proper paperwork with DVLA, to avoid a hefty fine.
Alternative Transportation Options
Share your ride. Carpooling and car-sharing clubs not only reduce the number of vehicles on the road, they also cut down on each person’s travel costs. It’s a win-win situation for both your pocket and the planet.
Taking the bus or train is not only convenient, it’s also eco-friendly. Public transportation systems are designed to move large numbers of people efficiently, thereby reducing the total emissions per person compared to individual car travel.
For short trips, consider cycling or walking. Not only do these options produce zero emissions, but they also have added health benefits. Enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, and keep emissions to a minimum.
