For auditors, travelling to clients’ sites is often a necessity, though there are occasions where public transport is a viable option. However, when driving is unavoidable, there are simple and practical ways to make your journeys more environmentally friendly. These tips aren’t exclusive to auditors but are useful for anyone looking to reduce the environmental impact of car travel, whether for business or personal reasons.
Let’s explore some fundamental principles that can make a meaningful difference. For those familiar with basic science, you’ll recognise how energy conservation plays a role here.
Understanding the basics of energy in vehicles
First, a bit of science: Newton’s First Law tells us that an object will remain in motion unless acted upon by an external force. This is central to driving; a car requires energy to accelerate. Additionally, according to Einstein’s principle that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted – the fuel or electric charge we put into a car is simply converted from one form to another to move the vehicle.
Knowing these basics can help us understand how to save energy and reduce emissions effectively, translating into both environmental benefits and cost savings. Of course, safety is paramount, so always follow the Highway Code and prioritise safe driving over efficiency measures.
Tips for driving environmentally
1. Drive smoothly and keep distance
Maintain a steady speed and leave adequate space between you and the vehicle ahead. This allows you to anticipate traffic changes, which can save fuel by reducing the need to brake frequently. For vehicles equipped with energy recovery systems, some of the energy typically lost when braking can instead be stored, improving efficiency.
2. Regular vehicle maintenance
Servicing your car regularly ensures that all components are in top condition, particularly for internal combustion vehicles. Maintaining engine parts reduces friction, allowing the vehicle to run more efficiently. Clean air filters, for instance, not only improve fuel economy but also reduce harmful emissions. Proper maintenance extends your car’s life and improves its performance.
3. Avoid idling
Avoid idling wherever possible, especially if you have an internal combustion engine. Many modern vehicles have a “stop-start” feature that automatically turns off the engine when stationary, helping to conserve fuel. If you don’t need the engine on—for example, when defrosting windows—consider other options. Note that idling laws vary by location, and in some areas, leaving the engine running while parked is prohibited.
4. Check tyre pressure
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure may seem minor, but it’s crucial for efficiency. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, requiring more energy to move and maintain speed. Additionally, properly inflated tyres improve handling, braking, and overall safety.
5. Minimise weight and drag
Remove unnecessary items from your car to reduce weight, which directly impacts fuel consumption. If you’re carrying excess items or have a roof rack that isn’t in use, consider leaving them at home. Reducing weight makes it easier for the engine to accelerate and brake efficiently. Roof racks, in particular, can also increase air resistance, impacting fuel efficiency.
6. Manage air conditioning and heating
Using air conditioning and heaters draws additional energy. Try to use these features mindfully, as they can impact fuel efficiency or drain battery reserves in electric vehicles.
7. Driving in the right gear
Driving in the correct gear is essential for fuel efficiency. Being in too high a gear for your speed means your car uses more fuel to maintain performance, even if engine revs are low. Conversely, staying in too low a gear causes higher revs than necessary, also leading to increased fuel consumption.
Many modern cars are equipped with dashboard displays that suggest the optimal time to change gear and the appropriate gear to use, helping you drive efficiently and economically.
The impact of efficient driving
Efficient driving can yield noticeable savings in fuel consumption or extend the range of electric vehicles. Making small changes, such as those above, doesn’t have to impact travel times. By being more mindful of his driving habits, Simon improved his fuel economy by around 15%—all without setting off earlier or arriving later.
Environmental considerations are not just for home or work; they’re on the road with us, too. With simple steps like these, we can each contribute to a greener planet, one mile at a time.
