Most of us try to do our bit for the environment, perhaps by religiously turning off lights, using grey water in the garden or avoiding long distance flights. However, even the most committed eco-supporter may find themselves reluctant to give up the convenience of car ownership.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to cut the environmental impact of your driving. There's no need to forswear your vehicle completely ? simply consider reducing or neutralising your carbon footprint with a few simple changes.
Swap old for new: Older cars tend to have less efficient engines, which means that they use more fuel the newer models. Buying a brand new car can therefore do wonders for your carbon footprint, as well as for your image. Think about investing in a hybrid model, and avoid gas-guzzling four wheel drives and sports cars.
Book in for regular services: If that sleek new hybrid model is outside your price range, then compromise by taking good care of your second hand model. Scheduling frequent services can improve efficiency while helping to reduce the risk of maintenance problems.
Ditch the extra weight: Did you know that all that unnecessary equipment in the back of your car could be costing you money in fuel? Improve efficiency by giving your vehicle regular clear-outs, and trying to travel as light as possible. As well as removing extra weight, it's also worth paying some attention to your vehicle's drag ? closing windows and getting rid of roof racks can improve streamlining and so save you petrol.
Revise bad driving habits: If you tend to brake and accelerate harshly when driving, your carbon footprint is likely to be larger. Smoothing out our style could make all the difference to your car's fuel efficiency. To make sure your vehicle is running smoothly, it's also important to regularly check your tyre pressures and keep them topped up to the correct levels.
Get green insurance: Many insurers now offer their customers the chance to offset their fuel emissions, thereby effectively balancing the fuel that they burn. If you can't afford the boost to your premium that this type of policy entails, then consider taking out insurance with a company like Co-operative Insurance, which will offset a respectable 20 per cent of your fuel emissions as standard.
Of course, the best way to reduce the environmental impact of owning a car is to drive less. Use public transport where possible, car share with friends, family and neighbours, and walk or cycle shorter journeys. You'll be surprised by how quickly your carbon footprint will diminish.
The author of this article is Virgilio Muchortow. In order to choose the right home insurance and car insurance policy visit the Co-Operative Insurance website.
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