As technology improves the fuel and energy efficiency of vehicles and motoring becomes more green, it also means a better deal for the environment. In the meantime, even if your vehicle is not as green as it could be, there’s a number of things you can do to drive greener and help the planet. Try these tips:

1. Pump up your tyres 3-5psi beyond maximum recommended pressure. This will improve fuel consumption by at least 6% and add life to your tyres.

2. Lighten the load on your vehicle. Clear out junk and unnecessary stuff from your vehicle. All extra weight increases fuel consumption.

3. Reduce idling. Despite what many people think, idling produces pollution. If possible, always turn your vehicle off instead of idling.

4. Combine trips. Try to do as many things as possible in one trip. Also try to do all your shopping at one location, if possible, to avoid more driving around.

5. Care for your vehicle. Regular maintenance like wheel alignments, services, using quality sparkplugs and good air and fuel filters all help your vehicle to run more efficiently and environmentally-friendly. Even better – switch to electric.

6. Park where you can, not where you want. Every minute of driving is producing pollution. Driving round and round a carpark or street looking for the ‘perfect park’ is not eco-friendly. Try to park where you can and walk a little more – it’s good for your health and for the Earth.

Visit www.betterliving.co.nz for more info on vehicle fuel efficiency.