You can reduce your carbon footprint with public transportation, or a bicycle, or electric or hybrid car. But for many, those aren’t valid options. Still, with just a few changes you can help lessen the impact of cars on the world.
Waterless CarWash
Washing your car uses between 80 and 150 gallons of water, and results in contaminants runing down your driveway, into public drains and eventually our water supply! The simplest tip? Move your car to the lawn to allow the particles in grass, and soil to assist with filtering out the nastiness.
But why not try a waterless car wash? Pinnacle, and EcoTouch are both sources for a quality product. Easy to use with just a few clean cloths for application and drying.
Recycled Vehicles
Vehicles are becoming increasingly green in their production, with the average percentage (by weight) of recycled materials in most cars being 84%! Ford is a bit better at 85%. BMW is significantly higher, and focuses on green and sustainable, but comes at an obviously higher price tag. So “going green” can be as simple as buying a newer car that is built from recyclable materials. You’ll also enjoy the benefit of a newer and hopefully more fuel efficient engine.
Recycled Floor Mats
Floor mats can be green! Even if they’re blue or brown. The backing on green floor mats contains up to 90% or more recycled tires. They’re priced reasonably, and work great to keep your car cleaner, and protect your carpets.
Tires from a Green and Sustainable Company
Tires dumped in landfills and random fields or forests cause of a lot of pollution, so making certain they’re recycled is ideal. Finding a company that focuses on making the tires themselves green is even better. Yokohoma says, “when choosing between a tire that performs best for your car and a tire that performs best for the environment, we choose both!” Their tires are produced with a unique rubber compound in production facilities with zero emissions. Green and sustainable.
DIY – Window Cleaner!
If you want something done right, do it yourself. Make your own window cleaner to reduce toxins in the environment. You’ll need:
- white vinegar
- spray bottle
- newspaper
Spray windows with vinegar. Wait a minute or two, then wipe dry with newspaper. You’ll avoid streaks, and cut through the grime and grease (and dead bugs) that can make your windows a mess!
To go green or sustainable takes thought. Reduce the amount of driving you do. Share a ride, and use public transportation when available. Get your car serviced at appropriate intervals to keep it running efficiently, and take advantage of the products and options indicated above. Every little bit helps.
Sources
Go Green Street
Carbon Fund.org
Organic Gardening
