Climate Action Day 13 – Drive Efficiently

Energy Production and Transportation

The Frog will explore The Climate Action Handbook: A Visual Guide to 100 Climate Solutions by Heidi Roop in the first 100 days of 2024

In the first `100 days of 2024 we will explore 100 climate solutions that may “empower you to evaluate, engage, and act” to address on-going climate change as an individual on your terms.

If you are going to hang onto your fossil fuel powered car, you are not alone – the percent of electric vehicles on the roads currently is a little over 1%. That means that we can make an impact, short of buying and EV, mainly by changing our driving habits. We have discussed ways to avoid driving and increasing the average number of passengers. Let’s explore the best ways to improve fuel efficiency of your current car. Heidi suggest five habits to adopt:

Reduce Your Road Rage – aggressive driving wastes gas. Especially in stop-and-go traffic – up to a 40% decrease in fuel efficiency. Breathe deep. Meditate. Go to your happy place. All for the sake of the climate!

Combine Small Errands Into One Big Trip

Lighten the Load – especially rooftop carriers, which can reduce fuel economy up to 25% at highway speeds

Dial Back the Climate Control – blasting the air conditioner in particular reduces your fuel efficiency

Slow Your Speed – 65 is the new 55: Making a small change like staying 65 mph as opposed 70 mph can mean a big fuel savings on a long trip

As we close out our focus on our driving habits, you can make an immediate positive impact on climate change by thoughtfully changing your driving habits. Walking and biking will have a positive impact on your mental and physical health, fuel savings translate to personal cost savings, and reduced emissions and few cars on the road means a better and safer environment for your community.

Next Up: Climate Action in 2024 – Day 14: Be Idle Free

Howard Creel

#rescuethatfrog
Email: rescuethatfrog@gmail.com