What can drivers do to reduce emissions?
- For local travel consider leaving the car at home and either walk, cycle or use public transport
- Keep the vehicle properly serviced
- Check tyre pressures at least once a fortnight
- Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the boot
- Plan the journey, so you don't get lost and waste fuel
- Try to avoid congested areas
- When starting up, there is no need to allow the engine to warm up - it is better to just drive off
- Try to avoid sudden acceleration, engine revving, and sudden braking - harsh accelerating and braking can use up to 30% more fuel and increase wear and tear of the vehicle
- Avoid using air conditioning if possible, as this uses more fuel
- Drive with the windows closed, as this reduces drag on the vehicle
- Accelerate slower
- Switch the engine off if you think you are likely to be stationary for more than 2 minutes
- On motorways be aware of the cars 3 or 4 ahead, and keep a good distance from the car in front to avoid unnecessary braking
- When replacing your car, look for the most carbon efficient (i.e. with a low gCO2/km figure) or with a high mpg - check out our car emissions calculator to see how much you could save