Save Money and the Earth this Labor Day Weekend

An estimated 27.7 million drivers traveled 50 miles or more over Labor Day weekend, 2001.  As Labor Day 2002 approaches, Environmental Defense is providing tips to make travel impacts lighter on the environment and the pocketbook.  Driving contributes to air pollution, smog and greenhouse gas pollution, exacerbating respiratory problems, obscuring scenic vistas and contributing to global warming.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = “urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office” />

“Drivers can save between $200 and $400 a year by just taking a few simple steps,” said Dean Menke, engineer at Environmental Defense.  “Protecting the environment doesn’t need to be difficult or costly.  Simple adjustments by drivers nationwide can have a dramatic impact on air quality, while reducing U.S. dependence on foreign oil.”

Check the tires.  An estimated 32 million cars and trucks in the U.S. have at least two tires that are underinflated.  If these tires were properly inflated, it would result in savings of nearly 560 million gallons of gas each year, which equates to more than $777 million.  For an individual, that’s an estimated savings of 19 gallons, or $26 per year.

Slow down and drive less aggressively.  In highway travel, exceeding the speed limit by a mere 5 mph results in an average fuel economy loss of 6%.  Also, conservative estimates show that aggressive driving can result in a 10% impact on fuel economy and cost drivers more than $80 per year. 

Keep your engine tuned properly.  Checking spark plugs, oxygen sensors, air filters, hoses and belts are a few examples of maintenance that can save a vehicle owner up to 165 gallons of gas per year, resulting in potential savings of $230. 

Travel light, pack smart and park it, once there.  Extra weight decreases fuel economy and increases pollutant emissions.  Place luggage inside rather than on the roof or trunk to maintain an aerodynamic profile, minimize drag and increase mileage.  Once you arrive, consider parking the car and using other transportation.  Walk to dinner, rent bikes, or take the bus. 

Support cleaner cars.  Sign the Clean Car Pledge and express your support for cleaner technologies.