Carpool or take a different form of transportation when possible
You should limit your driving any chance you have and choose an alternative transportation method, like walking or biking and connect with nature. Like we established, however, that’s not always possible, so try carpooling with a friend or family member when you need to go for a longer trip. Better yet, take advantage of any available public transportation.
Stop breaking the law and slow down
We hate to break it to you, but speed limit signs are there for a reason. Obviously, there’s a speed limit for everyone’s safety, but going over the speed limit produces more emissions than necessary. So, by speeding, you’re not only breaking the law, but you’re also harming the environment. Our solution? Plan accordingly and leave yourself enough time so that you don’t have to speed. We know you’re excited to relax in Montclair this summer, but you can’t enjoy the events if you don’t get there. If you speed because that’s just how you drive, it’s time to practice greener driving habits.
Don’t “top off” your gas tank
Believe it or not, when you go to the gas station, topping off your tank isn’t helping your car or the environment. Once the gas station’s nozzle clicks off, that is your indicator that the tank is correctly full. Your car needs room in the gas tank for the gas to expand and contract naturally; topping off your tank is removing that space. Plus, you can damage your car’s engine by topping off the tank, not to mention the detrimental environmental impacts. By essentially overfilling your gas tank, you’re also releasing harmful vapors into the air. In addition, topping off your tank puts you at a higher risk of spilling. If you spill gasoline, not only is that horrible for the environment, but it could also be dangerous.
Stay on top of car maintenance
Sure, maintaining your car gets expensive, but that doesn’t mean you should let it go. Regular oil changes, occasional engine maintenance, and changing your tires significantly improve your car’s efficiency. You should keep in mind that some car maintenance has a negative effect on the environment if it’s done incorrectly. Take your tires, for example; if the tire’s air pressure is overfilled or underfilled, your car’s fuel efficiency will struggle and ultimately burn more fuel. Plus, you’ll have to get new tires at some point, but throwing away your tires negatively impacts the environment. So, make sure your mechanic is disposing of tires properly.
Now that you know how to reduce your car’s negative environmental impact, you can make meaningful changes in your life. Let’s start with that speeding, shall we? Or, maybe you can dust off that bike that’s been in storage? Regardless, start practicing a greener lifestyle and have fun while doing so!