It is a well-established fact that cars are no friends to the environment. But, it is impossible to imagine living in a world without cars. Everyone needs it for their commutes – be it for work or road trips. But, on this Environment Day on 5th June, you can inculcate some Green Tips that will not only save the nature but also save you money! Here are 7 tips you can use to contribute your bit to save the environment before it’s too late!
Tip #1: Use Carpool to save fuel:
Why drive alone when you can go with your friends and colleagues? Carpool has tons of advantages. 4 people can come in one car instead of them using 4 different vehicles. It saves you money as the fuel cost is divided among all the people. This practice is proven to reduce traffic too, making the roads less congested and your drives less stressful. When there are less cars on the road, there is way less damage done to the environment. This is the one habit that can help make the Earth a better place.
Tip #2: Install Air Filters:
Installing an air filter may seem unimportant to many. But, it is a vital component which boosts your car’s performance while making sure your vehicle does not pollute much. An air filter reduces the emission of harmful greenhouse gases like CFC, carbon monoxide, methane and carbon dioxide. It reduces the pressure on your engine by trapping small dust particles and soot. Air filters are cheap and can be used for a ling time before needing to be replaced.
Tip #3: Don’t under-inflate or over-inflate Tires:
Not many know this, but an optimum tire pressure is critical to get the most out of your car’s performance. Tires are made from rubber, which does not decompose easily, making it an enemy of the environment. When tires do not have optimum pressure, they wear off faster, and have to be thrown away sooner. Having a perfectly inflated set of tires running your vehicle can put lesser load on your engine, making it more efficient. And, an efficient engine is the key to burning off lesser petrol and saving the precious and scarce resources.
Tip #4: Get your vehicle regularly serviced:
When was the last time you took your vehicle to get it serviced? Many of us ignore it, but it is a no-brainer to regularly service your vehicle, preferably every 4-6 months, to keep it running smoothly for years. When your vehicle runs without any hiccups, you get the maximum out of it. Finding errors early (like a faulty exhaust or an overworked engine) can make sure your car does not harm the environment and it does not hurt your pockets deeply.
Tip #5: Turn off the engine when not needed:
You are on a long road trip. You have stopped to have a quick cup of chai and coffee. But, you keep the engine of your car running because you need the AC. This habit of leaving your car on is, by far, one of the WORST habits that has some serious repercussions. Keeping your car engine running burns off precious fuel and makes your engine work harder. Burning off fuel is harmful to the environment as it releases harmful gases into the atmosphere. So, make it a habit to turn off the engine when you don’t need it and save a lot of things at the turn of a key.
Tip #6: Don’t drive at high speeds:
Everyone knows it – stepping up on the accelerator might save you some time, but it does more harm than good. Driving at high speed might sound fun, but it does great damage to your engine and also, to the environment. Driving at high speed (like 90-100 kmph) requires more fuel than driving at 50-60 kmph. It is recommended to drive at economical speed (usually around 45-65 kmph) at all times, and you end up NOT burning that extra fuel.
Tip #7: Get your Vehicle PUC-certified:
PUC stands for “Pollution Under Control”. As the name suggests, this initiative is taken by the government to control the damaging emissions coming out of cars, bikes and other vehicles. Once you buy a new vehicle, you need to get it checked regularly (usually every 6 months). It is quite cheap too (around ₹60-100) and also convenient. You can get your vehicle checked even at the nearest petrol pump. It is in your best interest to get your vehicle PUC-certified, or else you might have to shell out a big fine.
These tips, if followed properly, can save a lot of things. These habits do not ask much – just a small step from your side can go a long way to save the Environment!
