Wednesday, August 12, 2009

GREEN LIVING: Drive Green and Help the Environment From Behind the Wheel

By Barbara Holbrook

We all know that what we drive affects the environment. But did you know that how you drive could affect the environment as well? A few small changes in your driving habits can add up to big results for the environment. Start with these.

Drive lightly. What's in your backseat? Do you have junk in your trunk? If you're carrying around an unnecessary load, then it's time to clean up. Removing unneeded weight from your vehicle can improve general fuel economy by about two percent for every one hundred pounds. Take the time to give your car a good spring cleaning and take out any items you don't need. Leave the jumper cables, but remember your car is not a storage unit.

What's the rush? Higher fuel efficiency has a direct correlation to lower emissions. So, if you're serious about saving gas, then get serious about the speed limit. In fact, it may even be time to drive 55 again.

The Department of Transportation conducted tests in 1997 showing that going from 70 to 60 miles per hour can save approximately 17 percent on fuel. Slowing down to 55 mph brings an even more impressive 30 percent decrease.

Take it easy, Rough Rider! Lighten up on your brakes and be gentle when approaching the gas. You want to drive smoothly and consistently for the best fuel efficiency. On the highway, set your cruise control to maintain a consistent speed for increased fuel savings.

Idle no more. An idle engine gets zero miles per gallon. Even a short time spent idling in a drive-thru releases greenhouse gases and other air polluting chemicals that contribute to global warming.

Be mindful of mindless waiting. First: avoid drive-through's. Park the car and walk into the restaurant. Going to pick up a friend? Don't wait with the engine running, pull to the curb and turn it off.

Make a decision to begin green driving with these eco-friendly tips for your car. Now go ahead and "green your ride."

For more articles like this head over to http://www.greenworld365.com. GreenWord365 believes if we all make small changes, we can have a big impact on the planet. The site provides tips and ideas about green living that are easy to do everyday.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barbara_Holbrook
http://EzineArticles.com/?Drive-Green-and-Help-the-Environment-From-Behind-the-Wheel&id=2687523

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