Reduce Your Carbon Footprint By Developing Green Driving Habits

As the wise philosopher, Kermit the Frog, once said “It’s not easy being green”.  And that’s especially true when it comes to ending our dependence on foreign oil and doing what needs to be done to save the planet. 

But it’s not as hard as you might think.  So, if you’re looking to do what you can to reduce co2 emissions when you drive, but can’t swing the cost of a new hybrid vehicle, just adopt a few of the green driving tips below. And, by the way, they won’t cost you a cent to start.

With just a few easy steps you can implement today, you can increase your gas mileage as well as reduce your carbon footprint by decreasing greenhouse gases and their effect on global warming.

These 7 simple, green driving tips will save you some green at the pump and you’ll be doing your part for the environment.

Examine Your Driving Habits

Eliminate abrupt start by accelerating gradually. By modifying that aggressive driving style, you could save as much as 33% in highway driving and around 5% for in-town driving according the Environmental Protection Agency.

Avoid Sudden Braking

Anticipate stops and spend as little time as possible on the tromping on that brake pedal because you’re just throwing energy away.

Drive the Speed Limit

Gas mileage typically decreases quickly at speeds of more than 60 mph.  Assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an extra 24 cents per gallon for gasoline.

Watch Out for Long Periods of Idling

Letting your engine idle uses more gas than just turning off the motor and restarting it when you’re ready to go again.  A good rule of thumb:  if you plan to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Combine Your Errands

Manage your stops so they're close to each other and you’ll eliminate backtracking and wasting fuel.  Try to find one centralized spot and walk from one stop to the next, if you can. It will be more fuel efficient than driving and parking at each of your stops.  Also, use the one of the many mapping tools on the internet and plan your trip in advance and reduce the likely hood of getting lost in unfamiliar areas.

Use Your Cruise Control

Cruise control is a gas saver. It evens out erratic driving patterns and helps achieve a consistent speed while reducing your over-reaction to small changes in traffic conditions.

Monitor the Use of Your Air Conditioner

Your auto’s air conditioner burns extra gas. So, if there’s any way possible, roll down the windows and let the fresh air in.   Paradoxically, though, on the highway, keep the AC on.  Open windows provide wind resistance and lower your gas mileage.