Ecclesiastes 4:9Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.
If you look at the traffic you will see that majority of cars have one person driving. This is unsustainable, as it uses a lot of fuel and clogs our roads with traffic.
We are very used to the convenience of driving our own car, but for today take the challenge to lift club, or take public transport. Yes, you may have to go out of your way to drop someone, or they may make you wait if they are not ready. But take it as your gift to the planet!
What are the carbon emissions of various types of transport? It depends on the source of fuel – for instance, is a train diesel or electric and how full the bus or train is.
Generally, buses score better than trains (though modern fuel-efficient trains such as Eurostar are better than buses).
We can reduce the impacts of driving; a key question is the type of car you drive. When next you purchase a car, make that the first question – which is the most fuel-efficient car? You will save a lot of money on fuel in the years ahead.
Car sharing and lift clubs can reduce your carbon emissions by a quarter if you travel with four people. This is a great way to save money and build up friendships with people who work and live in the same area as you.
Hybrid cars and Electric vehicles can cut your fuel costs hugely, but they are an expensive buy up front.
Eco-driving
Optimal driving techniques can also help you cut emissions and save money in a petrol-powered car. Hard acceleration and braking can waste fuel and lower your mileage by 33 percent on the highway and 5 percent around town, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).
For every 5 miles (8kms) per hour you drive over 60 miles (96kms) per hour, fuel economy is lowered by 7 percent, so go easy on the brakes and gas pedal. You can also lower impacts by reducing time spent idling and using overdrive and cruise control. And because a properly maintained vehicle can improve your gas mileage and fuel economy by 4 percent, remember to have your vehicle tuned up, tires inflated, and oil and air filter cleaned out regularly.