How to reduce your car’s greenhouse gas emissions

Do you know how to reduce your car’s greenhouse gas emissions?

Reducing your car’s emissions is good for the environment. In addition, a cleaner car also offers better performance and fuel economy.

Read on to find out how to act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

 

8 ways to start reducing greenhouse gas emissions now

All cars manufactured after 1992 must comply with the European standard, which classifies the emissions they produce based on laboratory tests. This emissions can vary significantly.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you are reducing greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible. Take note:

1. Reduce the frequency with which you drive

Fewer miles mean fewer emissions. Follow these tips to reduce the time you spend driving:

1. Walk or cycle whenever you can.
2. Use public transport whenever possible.
3. Ask your colleagues and friends for a ride.
4. Use travel sharing services;
5. Plan your trips. If the supermarket is close to other places you need to visit, do it all at once.
6. If your work permits, work from home periodically.

 

2. Adapt your driving style

The way we drive can reduce greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.

Follow these tips to reduce emissions while driving safely and saving fuel:

Drive efficiently avoiding accelerations and sudden braking.

Perform preventive maintenance on your car, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and use the recommended engine oil.

 

3. Choose the right fuel

Despite generating much controversy, the use of premium fuels is always a good option.

These types of fuels contain active cleaning agents to remove engine dirt, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Try fueling your car three or four times in a row with this type of fuel to see if you notice any difference.

 

4. Change the oil

Engine oil is your  vehicle’s life force: it lubricates, cleans and prevents wear.

Check your vehicle’s manual for recommended service intervals and regularly check the engine oil level between service intervals according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

 

5. Change the air filter

When an air filter is clogged, the air flow to the engine is reduced, which can lead to several problems such as the accumulation of debris which leads to premature wear of the engine components.

Check the recommended service intervals to find out the optimal time to change the filter, but be prepared to change it more regularly if you use your car in a more polluted environment.

 

6. Check tire pressure

According to Michelin, a tire loses about 0.076 bar per month.

Low tire pressure increases fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. A tire with insufficient pressure leads to higher fuel consumption.

Check tire pressure according to manufacturer’s recommendations at least once a month.

 

7. Use air conditioning sparingly

Air conditioning increases the demand for your engine increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Turn off the air conditioning a few kilometers before reaching your destination, as the system will allow fresh air to continue circulating through the fans.

However, it is important to note that, depending on the route and speed, it may be more efficient to use air conditioning than traveling with the windows open, as this creates some vehicle resistance, increasing fuel consumption and gas emissions.

 

8. Avoid driving in neutral

The neutral  is the lowest regime in the operation of an engine and there is a belief that driving in this state (usually in descents) leads to lower fuel consumption.

However, the electronic injection systems, existing in most vehicles, already manage the fuel and do not need to drive without a gear engaged.  You’re going to end up spending more fuel.

If your car is equipped with a Start/Stop system, make sure it is turned on.

If the sustainability of the planet is something that worries you, follow the tips we shared with you. We are sure that  it will make a difference.