Cut the Smoke

When we consider air pollution from automobile engines,the focus is not on automobile manufacturers but on folks who buy and drive these automobiles. The challenge for vehicle users is not to replace existing vehicles with more fuel efficient versions but to reduce use and participate in a new vision of car-free living environment. We as citizens of this world must end the madness of traffic,gridlock,superhighways,smog and lethal accidents.

There are many ways that we all can do to help reduce the amount of pollution our vehicles are making. Some may include simple changes in the way we live and how we use our car,while a few others may include how a car owner can bring a change in the pollution scenario if they use their car with a little more care and proper maintenance.

Tips on car maintenance that can help to reduce car emission:

Car maintenance is the initial step towards making the earth a pollution free planet. It is very important to maintain and service a car regularly. An unserviced car leads to high levels of emission in the form of dark clouds of smoke. Switch off the engine if the car is in halt for more than two minutes,especially during traffic lights and jams.

Over loaded car increases the weight of the car leading to more use of engine power to pull the car which further leads to high fuel consumption and again more emission. Unload extra weight from the car’s trunk,which you don’t need for your regular runs. Also,keep a check on your tyre pressure,as the correct tyre pressure will add to less drag on the car dynamics.

Know your car well: Be well informed about the basic technical specifications of a car. A well informed car owner can detect the faulty engine glitches in advance and get it fixed immediately. Black toxic smoke clearly indicates excess of gas in the fuel mixture and also the high level of hydrocarbons. This problem has to be checked and fixed without making a delay.

Be smart: Think about the types of trips that you and your family take in cars,and avoid driving when it is unnecessary,instead how about walking or riding your bike when you are taking very short trips and don’t have to carry much luggage. And think about how much fitter and healthier you will be!

Encourage car pools: It’s the latest trend to check automobile pollution and reduce city traffic congestion. Two or more people commuting from a same place to a similar destination can easily opt for car pooling.

Plan before you drive: Make trips multi-purpose,for example pick up all the shopping and in the same trip to visit the bank and library. This is also much more time-efficient for a busy person.

Try public transport: Travelling on trams,buses and trains,whatever mode of public transport is available in your area,is a quick and relaxing way to reach your destination. There are a lot of ideas that could be put into place to help with car pollution. Just remember,for every kilometre you and your family don’t drive your car,the air is made a little healthier for you to breathe in.

The writer is a known car rallyist,also a consultant for various car manufacturers and currently is running an automobile workshop in Chandigarh