5 Tips for Environmentally-Friendly Car Ownership

In modern society, there are more opportunities than ever for drivers to operate eco-friendly vehicles. Eco-friendly is all about the future of our health. Of course, green vehicles are powered by alternative gases, assisted by other vehicle technologies, and are a quick and affordable option for driving an eco-friendly car. But if you don’t have time to switch vehicles, there’s no need to worry. Here are five tips for environmentally-friendly car ownership.

1. Use Biodegradable Soap to Wash Your Car

Biodegradable soaps are an eco-friendly environment to many of the harsh soaps you might use to wash your car. Biodegradability indicates that bacteria can break down the product to only water or organic material, and often, within a set period of time. You’ll see these products labeled as biodegradable on their surface. You can rest assured they also have the added benefit of not being harsh on your hands and clothing. If you’re thinking eco-friendly, remember that there are drain pipes near you when you’re washing your vehicle. So, it’s best to make sure you’re not flushing anything too dangerous down the drain.

2. Keep Eco-Friendly Tires Properly Maintained

Eco-friendly tires allow for low rolling resistance, which ultimately influences how well your vehicle travels on the road. The more friction the tires face on the road, the more power your vehicle will have to utilize. Choosing eco-friendly tires is the best way to ensure a healthy balance between the appropriate amount of traction and overexertion of the tires. With or without these tires, you still have to be wary of common hazards on the road. Tires that tear up roads are harder on vehicles over time, ultimately increasing the amount of emissions in the environment.

3. Recycle Gas, Oil, and Antifreeze Products

The Gulf of Mexico has almost 125 oil rigs in operation. A spill in the Gulf would certainly be bad news. But even located on your home property, letting gas or oil seep into the environment can do more harm to everyone’s health than you think. Gasoline can damage plants and jeopardize animal habits, while antifreeze and oil can poison people when they get into the water supply. To reduce the risk these products pose to the environment, recycle them according to the bottle’s description. You’ll be reducing health risks to your family and ultimately reducing the threat to the environment at the same time.

4. Get Your Vehicle Repaired to Reduce Emissions

The roadways of the United States? Did you know they average more than 5,891,000 motor vehicle accidents a year? You’re only doing yourself a disservice if you don’t capitalize on repairs as soon as possible. Some types of damage can do more harm to the environment considering the extra energy that’s used to operate the vehicle. A bad engine will emit more emissions than a functioning one. A vehicle with a faulty transmission will also burn more gas than a car that’s up to date. Get on top of repairs as quickly as possible to reduce your impact on the environment. You’ll be doing your part to keep the environment safe in the process.

5. Limit Use of Your Vehicle Whenever Possible

While having an eco-friendly vehicle is nice, sometimes, the safest approach for the environment is to reduce your use of your vehicle altogether. If you live in a town or city that’s great for walking, then there is one great way to improve your health and reduce the toll on the environment at the same time. Public transportation is more accessible and convenient than you may think once you learn the schedules. While getting out of your vehicle might not seem like it’ll make a difference, remember, you’ll be sending a positive message to your friends and family. Be a role model to your community. Consider the advantages of leaving your vehicle parked in the garage.

There are eco-friendly cars available for purchase if you’re serious about protecting the environment. But often, being an environmentally-friendly car owner is as simple as taking a few minutes to think. Should you really use soap that’s not biodegradable? Don’t you think it’s a good idea to get your vehicle repaired now rather than wait until later? As long as you’re taking care of your car, it’ll operate smoothly, and a smoothly-operating vehicle will always have the least possible impact on the environment.