Be leaner and greener when you travel
Transport was the biggest source of carbon emissions from the ParalympicsGB camps at Bath in both 2010 and 2011 – although it did come down thanks to your efforts! Travel also accounts for a quarter of personal CO2 emissions in the UK.
We know a lot of you rely on your cars for transport, but driving more efficiently can save you up to 10% on your fuel bill and reduce your transport footprint at the same time. And by cutting vehicle journeys and using other modes such as trains, buses and smaller cars when you can you will really reduce your CO2 emissions.
How to be a smarter driver:
- Check tyre pressures regularly. Under-inflated tyres use more fuel.
- Lose weight and streamline. Extra weight means extra fuel so clear out your boot. Roof racks/boxes create extra wind resistance, increasing fuel consumption
- Easy does it: Drive smoothly, accelerating and braking gently.
- Stick to the limits. For an average car, driving at 70mph uses up to 15% more than at 50mph. Cruising at 80mph can use up to 25% more fuel than at 70mph.
- Cut down on the air-con. Air-con increases fuel consumption, particularly at low speeds.
- Don't be idle. Turn off your engine if you’re going to be waiting more than a couple of minutes.
- Make your next car fuel efficient. An ‘A’ rated car can achieve over 80mpg – nearly double that for normal petrol vehicle.
- Try sharing or combining short trips. Cold starts are inefficient so it pays to combine trips. And if you car share, it can save you money and you’ll have company!