Climate change is a topic that is becoming increasingly prominent. If not addressed promptly, it can have devastating consequences. Today, sustainable living is more important than ever. There are simple ways you can reduce your carbon footprint while doing your part to help the environment.
You can instantly reduce your carbon footprint by recycling and avoiding plastic products. Many bars and restaurants have adopted paper straws to make their operations more environmentally-friendly. Global sales of electric cars (EVs) increased by 40% between 2019-2020, with charging stations increasing from 7,340 in 2014 up to 25,313 in 2020. As the U.S. continues to invest in electric vehicle expansion, there will be more. Driving might be an excellent place to begin if you are looking to make the world a better place.
Eco-friendly driving
Vehicles are one of the most damaging to the environment. The burning of fossil fuels such as gasoline and diesel releases nitrogen gas and excess carbon dioxide (CO2) which heats the atmosphere, and in turn disrupts it. The transportation sector alone is responsible for 29%, or more than any other sector.
There are several things you can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from your home.
Tips for eco-driving
- Good gas mileage is a must. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), requires that auto manufacturers add a label that shows both the estimated fuel costs and the fuel economy for new cars and light trucks. You can also find information about the vehicle’s greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants on this label. This will help you choose a model that is friendly to the environment.
- Inflate your tires properly. Many drivers are shocked to learn that tire pressure can impact gas emissions. However, Sustainable America reports that low tire pressure wastes more than 4 million gallons each year.
- Regular oil changes are recommended. Regular maintenance can improve your car’s gas mileage by 4 percent and fuel efficiency by up 40%.
- Filters need to be replaced. Air filters are essential to keep your car running smoothly. Make sure you replace them often and turn down the air conditioner (or lower it). To prolong their lifespan.
- The shortest route is the best. While a longer route may save you time due to traffic or other problems, it can also cause more damage to the environment. Combine your errands and find the most efficient way to reach your destination.
- Speed is not a good idea. Speeding or aggressive driving can cause you to use up to 30% more gas while you’re on the highway. So instead, slow down and take the brakes off whenever possible.
- Turn on cruise control. If you travel more than 50 mph, you will pay 18 cents more per gallon for each additional 5 mph. This means that you are using more gasoline and emitting more pollutants. However, cruise control can help you maintain a lower speed.
Alternative eco-friendly transport options
You can reduce your carbon footprint by not driving. You don’t need a vehicle to travel.
- Public transportation: You can use public transportation to get around.
- Conserve Energy Future predicts that Americans will spend about 18 days on their annual commute. However, if four people share their commutes, they could save about 72 hours of carbon emissions by sharing just one vehicle.
- Bicycle: In 2015, the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy concluded that bicycling to work and around town could lead to 11% lower total carbon emissions, if only 20% of world’s drivers took up cycling by 2050.
- Scooter or electric bike: If you live in a city, scooters and bikes can be much faster than cars. Bike lanes, parks and other routes are now viable options for a quick and easy commute that doesn’t impact the environment.
- Hybrid or electric vehicle: Although hybrid or electric vehicles require more upfront investment, they can be used for longer distances than other types of bikes.
Electric cars offer many benefits
Hybrid and electric vehicles are rapidly becoming mainstream. They not only offer a more environmentally-friendly method of traveling but also make it much more affordable.
Environmental benefits
- Emissions are lower: An average hybrid or electric vehicle emits less tailpipe emissions that traditional cars. EVs and plug in hybrid EVs emit zero tailpipe emissions because they only use electricity.
- Avoid regular charging with renewable energy: This is another way to be more environmentally-friendly. Regular charging can lead to power plant emissions. You can instead ask your energy provider to switch to green power. This is electricity that comes from renewable sources and will still charge your car.
- More efficient: Gas vehicles are more energy-efficient than hybrid or plug-in hybrids. They also consume nearly three times as much CO2 as electric vehicles.
Savings Benefits
Gas
According to AAA , an electric vehicle costs $600 less per year than a standard gas vehicle. Based on 15,000 miles per year, an electric vehicle will save you $546 annually in fuel costs, as opposed to $1,255 for a gasoline-powered vehicle. This is 130% more each year.
Maintenance
It is also much cheaper to maintain your vehicle. According to manufacturer recommendations, routine EV maintenance will cost you about $949 or $330 less than a gas-powered car.
Credit for tax
If you purchase an electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid electric car, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7500. The U.S. Department of Energy has a list of eligible models and the exact amount of tax credit.
There are many electric car options
Automobile manufacturers are adding new electric vehicles to their fleets. Many of these are cheaper than ever.
There are three types you can buy when it comes to electric cars:
- The Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), which produces zero emissions, uses only an electric battery to power it.
- Hybrid Electric Vehicle: An HEV can use both gasoline and an electric motor to power its engine, but all energy comes from gasoline.
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle: A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV), is similar to an HEV but has a larger battery and an electric motor to supplement the gas tank.
Electric cars most affordable
Edmunds has a list of the cheapest electric cars that will be available in 2021.
- 2021 Mini Cooper SE : The 2021 Mini Cooper SE is the smallest of all the EVs on the list. Its modern design is still affordable enough for commuters and other drivers who don’t need much space.
- 2021 Nissan Leaf: This is another affordable, agile vehicle that can be upgraded to a larger battery pack to extend the range to 226 miles.
- 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Electric – Hyundai’s 2021 Ioniq Electric has the longest range among the top three thanks to an upgraded and longer battery that has made a lot of progress since its initial launch.
Electric cars can be insured
Although an electric vehicle insurance policy can be more expensive than traditional car insurance , if you get multiple quotes and find discounts, it can still be as affordable as a car with a gasoline engine. Many of the top car insurance companies offer electric car insurance. This is why it’s worth taking the time to research your options and finding the right insurance.
There are other ways you can live an eco-friendly lifestyle
Not only is transportation a way to make a positive difference, but so are other ways. These are some other ways to live in a more environmentally-friendly way at home and work:
- Energy conservation You can reduce your energy consumption at home and at work by turning off lights when you’re not using them. Also, consider smart technology in your home.
- Recycle and reuse. Reusable and recyclable containers, as well as items that can be easily biodegradable, will help you reduce your carbon footprint.
- Go paperless. To reduce your carbon footprint, opt for electronic receipts and paperless statements whenever possible. At work, conserve paper and do as much online as possible.
- Purchase sustainable clothing. Buy sustainable clothing. Textile waste can cause serious harm the environment. However, by purchasing sustainable clothing you not only support the continued use sustainable materials, but also help animals and ensure better wages and working conditions.
- Reduce your consumption of meat. Reduce your consumption of meat.
- Donate. Donate. Your financial support and contributions to federal programs and private donors like you make it possible for us to continue our research on protecting the environment. Look for local organizations that are making a difference in your area and give what you can. Volunteering is a great option if you don’t have the financial means to give money.
Sustainable living, which is a way to reduce your carbon footprint through lifestyle, transportation, and diet, is a great option given the current climate change. AAA reports that 96% of EV drivers would lease or buy another electric vehicle.
Research is clear. You can improve your health and save the earth by making small changes.