Climate change and the impact our actions can have on the environment are major causes for concern for much of the population. Statista reported that 39% of survey respondents in the UK were very concerned about climate change, while 43% were fairly concerned.

There are many areas of our lives where we can make a difference, however transport is a particularly pressing area. If you drive, there are things you can do to help make a difference.

Choosing fuel-efficient vehicles

When it comes to fuel efficiency, there’s a hierarchy. While electric vehicles don’t reduce any emissions, there are plenty of other fuel-efficient options on the market if these aren’t a practical choice for you right now. Hybrid cars, for example, are a great way to meet in the middle.

Having an efficient vehicle means less carbon emissions are released into the atmosphere when you drive. This can be especially handy if you live in an urban area with lots of congestion. Many urban areas also have ULEZ zones designed to combat the negative impacts of pollution from congestion.

It’s worth bearing in mind that choosing a used car means you can extend the lifespan of an existing vehicle without tapping into the extraction of raw materials used in brand-new cars. As long as you research the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, you’ll get an idea of which models are better suited to your brief.

The impact of regular vehicle maintenance

Did you know that vehicle maintenance plays a large role in the amount of emissions you emit? Not only is it beneficial for the longevity of your vehicle, allowing it to be used for longer, but there are also more subtle details that can make a difference.

Keeping your tyres inflated reduces the rolling resistance of a vehicle. As a result, the engine doesn’t need to work as hard to carry the vehicle along, so fuel consumption is also reduced.

You should also change your oil regularly as this keeps the engine lubricated to help it run smoothly. It can also help to prevent oil burn-off, which releases harmful pollutants.

Meanwhile, engine checks mean you can ensure optimal performance while driving. When the engine is running correctly, it means that fuel is being burned more efficiently. This reduces the amount of harmful emissions and pollutants being released into the atmosphere. Plus, it reduces fuel consumption which also means you can save money, making it a win-win scenario.

Eco-friendly driving habits

Once you’ve considered the vehicle itself and its maintenance, it’s time to consider your driving habits. This can make more of a difference than you might expect. Some examples of good, eco-friendly driving habits include:

Maintaining a steady speed

Smooth acceleration

Avoiding unnecessary idling

Staying within speed limits

Being sparing with your air conditioning

Avoiding rush hour where possible to limit congestion

Planning journeys in advance

Avoiding short trips by combining errands into one trip

The result? You can lower fuel consumption and the release of harmful toxins.

Image credits: Evnex Ltd