Driving a car is the main contributor to our carbon footprint from travelling. If we lived car-free, this would save 2.4 tonnes of carbon emissions per year. But many of us need to drive a car for work and leisure and alternatives such public transport, cycling and walking routes are not prevalent where our local area. How can you reduce carbon emissions from driving a car if you do not have an electric car and living car-free is not an option? There are a few efficient driving habits that can lower carbon emissions from your car journey.

Check the tyre pressure and weight on top the car

Under-inflated car tyres increase fuel consumption, so check that your tyres before you go on a journey. Also, putting weight on top of the car will increase drag. This will increase the amount of fuel you use, so only put roof racks, boxes and bars on your car roof when you need to.

Drive smoothly and avoid excessive speeds

Driving at high speeds uses up fuel faster, so driving at slower speeds cuts the emissions of driving a car. Driving smoothly by avoiding unnecessary breaking and acceleration also reduces the amount of fuel you use. If you keep a distance from the vehicle in front of you, you can adapt your speed without using breaks. When slowing down, lift off the accelerator as early as possible to remain in gear. To avoid driving at high revs that increases fuel consumption, shift up earlier to a higher gear.

Cut emissions using car windows and switching off when stationary

Opening windows instead of using air conditioning saves energy. If you don’t like opening car windows, use air conditioning sparingly in the car. If your car is stationary for more than a minute, you should switch off the car to save fuel.