Driving Green

The best way to drive green is not to drive at all. Every time you walk, bike, or take public transportation instead of driving, you’re saving over a pound of carbon dioxide emission per mile. However, most of us do have to drive at least part of the time. Fortunately, there are many ways to maximize efficiency, save gas, and lessen pollution.

Choosing a Car

• If you’re buying a new or used car, consider a hybrid or other high-mileage vehicle.

Maintenance

• Check your tires at least once a month and keep them inflated correctly.

• Have your oil changed regularly (and ask for recycled oil to be used).

• Keep your car tuned up. Misaligned tires and worn spark plugs, etc., can lessen a car’s efficiency.

Driving

• Plan your errands in advance so that you can take as few trips as possible.

• Don’t speed. The faster you go, the lower your fuel economy.

• Avoid stop-and-go driving.

• Keep your windows open when you first turn on your air conditioner. It’s easier for the air conditioner to chase the hot air out than to cool it.

• Park in the shade so that your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to cool off the car.

• Use windshield shades to keep the car cool.

And remember to turn off your engine when you’re not driving: while idling, you’re getting 0 miles per gallon!
Web Resources

• American Public Transportation Association (www.apta.com/links/transit_by_mode/): This site includes lists of the different commuting options available in cities around the country with links for schedules, fares, routes, and other information.

• Divide the Ride (www.dividetheride.com/Index.aspx: This site can help you start a neighborhood carpool; you can set up a carpool calendar, and the site will send out text messages and email reminders.

• Commuter Choice (www.commuterchoice.com/): This site offers information on various commuting options, including carpooling, vanpooling, and bus/rail.

• Flexcar and Zipcar (www.flexcar.com/): The Flexcar and Zipcar programs allow you to reserve a car for use when you need one for even a couple of hours.

• HopStop (www.hopstop.com/): This site provides point-to-point public transportation directions for New York City, Long Island, Metro North area, New Jersey, Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco.

• iCarpool (www.icarpool.com): This site can help you find carpool partners for a daily commute, recurring trips, long-distance trips, and events. 
• League of American Bicyclists (www.bikeleague.org/index.php): This site provides tips and information on how to commute via bike, what gear and clothing you need, and how to keep your ride safe.