This month, the ELPC Justice Committee is posing the question: Do you ever think about how much energy cars consume?
Car engines are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some tips to help conserve fossil fuels and reduce emissions.
Avoid Idling
Many states, such as New Jersey, prohibit ordinary cars from idling for more than 3 minutes, because running the motor when you are not moving releases particulates and greenhouse gases into the environment. Turn off your engine while you wait.
Slow Down
On the highway, most cars operate more efficiently when traveling at 55–60 mph. At higher speeds, cars burn more gas. In fact, almost 30% more gas is consumed at 80 mph than at 55–60 mph. If the national speed limit were set at 55 mph, it would save 1 billion barrels of oil per year.
Walk, Take Public Transportation, Carpool
A car parked at home emits no greenhouse gases or toxic pollution.