According to Wikipedia, a carbon footprint is
“the total set of GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event or product”.
Ironically, carbon footprints are often the result of how much time we spend in our car. Hence, making our miles count and practicing efficiency is a great way to reduce our carbon footprint.
Some simple ways to save money as well as reduce your carbon footprint with your vehicle are:
- Take a few extra minutes to plan your trips. Combine trips to the grocery store, with dropping the kids off at school, or with another set appointment. As often as possible, run your errands in circles, thus eliminating back tracking. Drive only when necessary.
- Keep your tires properly inflated. If you’re not sure how to do this, most tire stores offer this service for free when you buy your tires from them. A hand held tire gauge is another great tool to keep handy.
- Remove any car carriers you may have attached on the top of your vehicle. Keeping your vehicle as aerodynamic as possible can help to increase your miles per gallon.
- Keep your car tuned up An improperly running car may cause an excessive use of gas as well as unnecessary wear on operating parts.
- If possible, carpool with others and share the expense. Or, if you are running errands, ask friends and/or family if they need you to pick up something for them, or vice versa.
- Use public transportation. Instead of driving, take the bus or train. Use this time to listen to music, read, write, etc. Many public services also offer discounts to seniors.
- If time permits, walk instead of driving. With walking being such a great form of exercise, instead of driving to the corner store, put on your sneakers and enjoy the fresh air.
These a just a few ways to reduce our carbon footprint. For more great ideas, just search online for, “how to reduce our carbon footprint”.
Photo of traffic jam courtesy of: respres
Posted on Monday, 16th March 2009 by BSwafford
Tags: car carriers, carbon footprint, carpool, driving habits, efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, miles per gallon, public transportation, seniors, simple ways to save money, tire gauge, tire stores, traffic jam, wikipedia
Posted in FAQ, Saving Money | Comments (3)
March 16th, 2009 at 8:04 pm
More good information to add to the way to make change. Like your format and colors too
Thank you
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March 17th, 2009 at 10:19 am
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March 28th, 2009 at 1:07 am
Good tips and reducing the carbon footprint is the ultimate goal of everyone.
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