How can I reduce my carbon emissions?
Tips to minimise your carbon footprint as a driver
With climate change being a topic of concern that certainly isn’t going away, and as the popularity of electric vehicles booms, you may be wondering how to reduce the emissions of your petrol or diesel car. If reducing your carbon footprint (or tyre print, as it were) is on your mind, read on…
How can I reduce my car’s carbon emissions?
Ultimately, it’s about using less fuel, and there are several ways in which you can do this…
Change your oil
An efficiently running vehicle is one that produces less carbon emissions, and as the fluid that makes efficiency possible within your engine, oil is an important component to keep on top of. Make sure you book car services at the recommended intervals, where the oil will be changed so that it can continue to lubricate, cool and clean the parts of your car that need it.
Change your air filter
An engine needs to breathe, and an air filter makes this possible under the bonnet. However, over time, this filter can get clogged with the dust and contaminants that it tries to keep away from the engine. Wear and tear happens quicker, and the components need to work harder to stay in working order, which is where more fuel is used. To avoid this, get your air filter changed as part of your car’s service.
Turn off the air con
If you didn’t already know that using your air conditioning uses up more fuel, you do now! Only using your air conditioning when you really need it will mean that you’re not burning through extra fuel, reducing those emissions.
Cut the idling
If you often keep the car running at the school gates, in traffic jams, or at places like level crossings, you’re using unnecessary fuel and creating more carbon emissions. Pop your engine off when it’s appropriate to do so to cut pollution, and save you some money too!
Adjust the way you drive
Making small changes to your driving style could make a big difference in the rate you burn fuel. These things include gentle acceleration and braking, and changing up through the gears quickly and efficiently.
Keep your tyres inflated
Cars with tyres that are creating drag through underinflation are burning more fuel - know your recommended PSI, and regularly check that your tyre pressure matches up.
Don’t weigh your car down
Similarly to the advice about underinflated tyres, a car that weighs more is working harder, and therefore using more fuel, and producing more emissions. Declutter your cabin, and be brutal with what’s in the boot; having a clearout will have a positive impact on your emissions, and your pocket.
Travel less
Well, it makes sense, doesn’t it? This doesn’t just mean avoiding unnecessary journeys in the car if you can, but also using a sat nav to find the most efficient route, and taking colleagues up on that offer to car share.
Switch to electric
If you’re conscious of the number of emissions that your car produces, it might be time to change up your vehicle to a battery-powered model. If you currently enjoy Warranty First protection on your petrol or diesel car, we’ve got good news - we cover electric vehicles too!