We should all be doing what we can to live a greener lifestyle. From finding ways to use less energy in our homes and businesses to buying products made from sustainable resources, we can all do our bit to protect the planet.

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But what about driving? Studies highlighted by the European Parliament have shown that transport is responsible for nearly 30% of the EU’s total CO2 emissions, 72% of which comes from road transportation. These are worrying stats and to counter these, we need to think green when driving. 

So, what can you do to be a greener driver? Here are some suggestions we think you will find useful. 

#1: Avoid busy traffic when possible

Nobody likes to be caught up in busy traffic but it’s the fact that it is problematic for the environment that should be of our biggest concern. If your leave your engine running when you’re caught up in a traffic queue, the greater the increase in carbon emissions. You can get around this problem by turning your engine off, of course. However, if you can time your journey to avoid busy traffic, or plan an alternative route, you will do both yourself and the world a favour. 

#2: Choose an electric vehicle

The sale of petrol and diesel cars will be banned from 2030 onwards, which is a good thing as far as the environment is concerned. So, if you are thinking about replacing your car in the meantime, now is as good a time as any to consider electric vehicles. You will be future-proofing your time on the roads if you do, and you will be driving something that is far less hazardous to the environment. There are some great electric cars on the market, including these Tesla lease deals, so you don’t have to sacrifice something good looking for the sake of the planet. 

#3: Consider car sharing

One less car on the roads is a good thing, right? Sure it is, especially when considering petrol and diesel cars. For this reason, you might want to consider car-sharing, especially where your commute is concerned. Share driving duties with nearby work colleagues and save both money and the environment in the process. 

#4: Be a better driver

You will burn less fuel if you keep to the speed limit and the same applies if you slow down and accelerate smoothly rather than suddenly. Let this be one incentive to be a more responsible driver and remember that you will also save on fuel and reduce the risk of an accident if you take care when driving. 

#5: Get an emissions test

It’s worth doing this before your MOT as your car will fail if your vehicle exhaust emissions are too high. A mechanic will carry out the test and make the necessary repairs if any faults are found. This will save you the inconvenience of a failed MOT and help you to become a greener driver. 

There is much you can do to go green so do what you can for the sake of the world around you. In terms of driving, consider the suggestions we have given you here. In some cases, you will save money too, so let that be another incentive to follow eco-friendly practices. 

About the Author: John Loughran