In recent years we have seen an increasing interest in obtaining more environmentally friendly practices in all industries. Of course, the commercial transport industry is no exception. In the United States, 6.5% of greenhouse gas emissions are the product of freight transport. It is our responsibility to adopt practices that reduce our impact on the environment and become eco-friendly drivers.
There are different habits and routines that can help us become eco-friendly drivers without having to completely change the way we work. The first thing is learning how to maintain an adequate speed, always respecting speed limits. It is also important to learn how to reduce idle time in which the engine is not in use. Finally, we must make sure to give constant maintenance to our vehicle, thus improving its performance.
Maintain an Adequate Speed
One of the most important steps to be able to become eco-friendly drivers, and also efficient, is to drive at an adequate speed. To achieve this, it is enough to respect the speed limits established in the different routes and roads through which we transit. Usually, the limits are between 55 and 70 miles per hour. However, the ideal speed is between 55 and 65 mph. This way, we reduce the amount of fuel we use without sacrificing trip times.
Reduce the Idle Times
Another alternative we have to become eco-friendly drivers is to reduce the amount of engine downtime. This way, we can reduce the amount of fuel we use by 20% or 30%. This, in turn, has a positive impact on the environment, as we also reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A very simple tip is to completely turn off the engine when we are not in motion. Another option is to adopt electric heating systems to keep the cabin of trucks at a warm temperature.
Give Constant Maintenance
Ensuring an optimal and efficient operation of our vehicle is a fundamental part of ecological transport. This is why it is really important to give constant maintenance to our truck or car. Checking oil levels and changing it when necessary, monitoring tire pressure, is essential. In addition, we can also consider the idea of installing aerodynamic panels to improve the efficiency of our trucks. If we adopt these practices, we can become more ecological and efficient truckers.