With the recession, everybody seems to be holding onto everything. We wear our bamboo clothes more than one season, we use our bamboo towels more than once, we are renovating instead of moving, and we are keeping our cars instead of trading them in. Instead of purchasing new cars, we are taking the necessary steps, so we can keep them longer. (However, there are some great cars out there like the Toyota Prius that allow you to get great gas mileage and help the environment that way. Our Prius averages around 54 mpg.)
There are many common repairs that you can take on yourself. As we head into winter, this is the perfect time to take these projects on. Here is a small list that will allow you to recycle, reuse, repair, and be resource friendly:
- Recycle fluids. Did you know that if you took the oil from all the people who change their own oil, it would be enough to supply more than 50 million cars a year? Most people do not realize that they can take their used oil, antifreeze, and parts to their local repair shop to be recycled.
- Repair. By taking care of your car (by doing proper maintenance and repairs), you can extend its life and prevent costly repairs. Engine tuning can improve a vehicle’s mileage by as much as 4%. Replacing air filters on a regular basis can also improve mileage up to 10%.
- Reuse parts and supplies. Rebuilt, remanufactured, and used parts are fairly easy to find. They can easily cost 50% less than new parts too! By using these types of parts, you are reducing the amount of raw material that is consumed and harmful emissions that are generated in the manufacturing of new parts.
- Cleaning Supplies. Remember that whatever you are cleaning your vehicle with will most likely end up in the storm drain which will then dump it into our rivers, streams, and oceans. Be conscious of the products you use or use a homemade solution. A commercial car wash oftentimes uses less water than you would at home. Also, cosmetic upkeep on your vehicle does keep things like corrosion away.
- Use resource friendly parts and products. When purchasing items for your vehicles, look at product life. Opt to get extended life antifreeze and organic brake pads.
- Keep your tires properly inflated. A properly inflated tire will get you higher fuel efficiency and also reduce harmful emissions. And since properly inflated tires last longer, less tires will be sent to the landfill!
It is amazing how easy it is to green every facet of our lives. I am always surprised at how the little things we do can make such huge changes. Who wouldn’t want 10% better gas mileage? A new car also requires resource intensive raw materials in its production that release harmful emissions into our air. The longer we can keep our already working cars, the better it is for everyone and the Earth.
For more on how to make your lifestyle greener, visit our Green is Grand section!
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