There are many practical things you can do to reduce the environmental damage from your car, from how you drive and maintain it, to when and how often you use it.

1. Drive less and choose greener trips

The single most effective way to cut your vehicle’s environmental impact is to drive fewer miles.

  • Walk, cycle, or use a scooter for short trips (under 2–3 km) instead of starting the car.
  • Use public transport (bus, tram, train) for longer journeys when possible.
  • Combine errands into one trip (“trip chaining”) so you don’t make several short, inefficient journeys.
  • Work from home or carpool with colleagues or friends to reduce the number of cars on the road.

2. Drive more efficiently (eco‑driving)

How you drive has a big effect on fuel use and emissions.

  • Accelerate and brake gently; avoid “jack‑rabbit” starts and hard braking.
  • Keep a steady speed and use cruise control on highways when safe.
  • Avoid high speeds; fuel consumption rises sharply above about 80–90 km/h.
  • Use higher gears at lower engine revs (where safe and legal) to reduce fuel burn.
  • Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than about 60 seconds (except in traffic).

3. Maintain your vehicle properly

A well‑maintained car pollutes less and uses less fuel.

  • Keep tyres inflated to the pressure recommended in your owner’s manual.
  • Change engine oil and filters on schedule, and use the correct grade of oil.
  • Fix any engine problems quickly (like a “check engine” light) so the car doesn’t run rich and pollute more.
  • Replace air filters and spark plugs as recommended to keep the engine efficient.
  • Get regular emissions checks (like a PUC test) if required in your area.

4. Reduce weight and drag

Extra weight and wind resistance make the engine work harder.

  • Remove heavy items from the boot/trunk that you don’t need for that trip.
  • Take off roof racks, roof boxes, or bike carriers when not in use; they increase drag and fuel use.
  • Keep windows closed at high speed; open windows create drag and reduce fuel economy.

5. Avoid short, cold journeys

Short trips are especially bad for the environment because the engine doesn’t warm up properly.

  • On a short journey, the engine runs less efficiently, uses more fuel, and emits more pollutants.
  • Try to combine short trips into one longer journey, or walk/bike instead.
  • If possible, let the engine warm up fully before driving hard (but avoid long idling).

6. Choose a cleaner vehicle when possible

When it’s time to replace your car, choosing a cleaner model makes a big long‑term difference.

  • Consider a hybrid, plug‑in hybrid, or fully electric vehicle (EV), which produce far fewer emissions over their lifetime.
  • If buying petrol/diesel, choose the most fuel‑efficient model in your size class.
  • Keep your current car in good condition and drive it for as long as safely possible; manufacturing a new car has a large environmental cost.

7. Use cleaner fuels and driving habits

Small changes in fuel and habits can add up over time.

  • Use the recommended fuel grade (don’t “upgrade” to premium unless the car needs it).
  • Avoid idling; turn off the engine instead of leaving it running while parked or waiting.
  • Plan routes to avoid heavy traffic and frequent stops, which increase fuel use and emissions.
  • Use air conditioning sparingly; it increases fuel consumption, especially at low speeds.

8. Support and use low‑emission options

Beyond your own car, you can support broader changes that reduce vehicle pollution.

  • Use car‑sharing or ride‑sharing services instead of owning a second car.
  • Support better public transport, bike lanes, and walkable communities in your area.
  • Choose electric or hybrid options for company cars or rental vehicles when possible.

Quick checklist for less environmental damage:

  • ✅ Walk, cycle, or take public transport for short trips.
  • ✅ Combine errands and avoid lots of short, cold journeys.
  • ✅ Drive smoothly: gentle acceleration, steady speed, less braking.
  • ✅ Keep tyres properly inflated and remove roof racks when not needed.
  • ✅ Maintain the car regularly (oil, filters, engine, emissions).
  • ✅ Turn off the engine when stopped for more than about a minute.
  • ✅ Choose a fuel‑efficient or electric vehicle when replacing your car.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.