The Nature Conservancy - JWN

Take the Driver's Challenge

The Drive Smarter Challenge was set up to encourage drivers to think more about the way they drive and how a few changes can save them money on gas while helping out the environment.

Use their calculator to determine how much carbon dioxide, money and fuel you can save by driving smart.

For More Information

U.S. Department of Energy's Fuel Economy site with tips, a printable fuel economy guide and calculator that can estimate your annual fuel cost.

The Federal Trade Commission's interactive how-to page on saving gas.

Looking for a new car? Check out the EPA's Green Vehicle Guide first!

Planet Green's How to Go Green:
Car Guide

Clean MPG - an online community that shares tips on how to raise fuel economy and lower emissions.

Gas prices may have lowered these past few weeks, but that doesn't mean we should start celebrating. The average household is still spending a big part of their paycheck feeding the gas tank. By learning to use our gas wisely, we can stretch a gallon for all its worth and more.

How We're Wasting Gas & Money

Though we may have hurrayed a bit at the station when we saw prices fall to $3.65 from $4.15, most Hoosiers are still agonizing over the cost of gas. Although its nice to save even a couple of dollars a fill-up, the truth is that how much we save is really determined by how we behave.

Some of the best fuel savings strategies have less to do with the car and more to do with the driver. How you drive can dramatically improve your vehicle’s fuel consumption. According to Edmunds.com, by modifying your driving habits you can improve your car's fuel economy by an average of 31% when you change from an aggressive to moderate driver. Speeding, tailgating and abrupt stops are just a few tell-tale signs that you may want to cool those engines a bit.

More Miles for Your Buck! Best Driving Practices that Improves your Fuel Economy

Even if you're the most docile driver, everyone can use some tips on how to get more miles for your buck. It's not just about the money or getting the best fuel mileage, it's also about the environment. Being a better driver is also being a "greener" driver. The less fuel you burn, the less carbon dioxide is emitted into the air which also means a lesser impact on climate change!

Before you get into your car, ask yourself whether or not the trip is absolutely necessary. If you find yourself shaking your head no, wait until you have other errands to run and plan accordingly. The best way to save money and improve your fuel economy is to use less gas.
If you can walk or bike to a destination, do so! Burning calories is much better for you and the environment than burning fuel.
Carpool or use public transportation whenever possible. By sharing rides, you can save money on gas and help put less greenhouse gases into the atmosphere by taking 1, 2, 0r 3 cars off the road.
While speed limits are set for your safety, sticking to them will also give you better gas mileage. According to the EPA, your gas mileage improves about 15% by driving at 55 mph rather than 65 mph.
Drive steadily - constantly slowing down and speeding up wastes gas. Use your cruise control to help maintain your speed whenever you can.
Regular tune-ups promote the best fuel economy for your vehicle. Check the owner's manual for the recommended maintenance schedule, and don't skimp out when it comes to oil changes and replacing air filters.
Inflate those tires! Keeping tires inflated to its recommended maximum limit will wear more evenly, are less likely to fail at high speeds and can deliver better gas mileage. Be wary of those who believe that inflating your tires higher than what is advised;over inflation can make those tires pop.
When starting your car, don't let it idle for more than 30 seconds. Cars today are designed to be driven immediately and don't need to be warmed up.
Lose weight and save gas! By removing any unnecessary weight for your car or trunk (think unused back seats, golf clubs, those bags of clothes and other unneeded items that you've been meaning to drop off at a local charity), you decrease drag while increasing gas mileage.

***Information gathered from Edmunds, Car Talk's Driving Tips for Treehuggers and EPA's Tips to Save Gas & Improve Mileage