At Avis, we’re committed to reducing our impact on the environment. We’ve previously supported the CarbonNeutral campaign, introduced Electric Bikes for deliveries in London and in Jan 2008, we were voted the Greenest car hire company in the Telegraph travel awards.

Now, we’re supporting ACT ON CO₂, a cross governmental campaign designed to help people to save money and fuel as well as reducing their CO₂ emissions. Visit the ACT ON CO₂ website for more information on buying, driving and sharing cars.

There are a few easy things you can do to reduce the amount of work your car engine has to do, the amount of fuel you burn and your CO₂ emissions. By following the below tips, you could cut your CO₂ emissions by around 8% – equivalent to saving up to one months fuel per year.

1. Pump up to cut down

Under inflated tyres create more resistance when your car is moving, increasing CO₂. Simply check your tyre pressures regularly and before long journeys. This will also help to increase the life of your tyres. However, remember that over inflated tyres can be unsafe, so check your car manual for the correct tyre pressure.

2. Less clutter means less CO₂

Clutter in your boot is extra weight your engine has to carry around. By removing it, you will burn less fuel and cut your CO₂ emissions.

3. Driving at an appropriate speed reduces CO₂

Staying within the speed limit increases driver safety and drivers should never exceed the speed limit. It also reduces CO₂ emissions and saves money on fuel. At 70mph you could be using up to 9% more fuel than at 60mph and up to 15% more fuel than at 50mph.

4. Less stopping and starting means less CO₂

Every time you stop and start in traffic, the engine uses more fuel and produces more CO₂. Keep an eye on the road ahead and slow down early by gently lifting your foot off the accelerator while keeping the car in gear. In this way, traffic may have started moving again by the time you approach the vehicle in front. You can simply change gear and be on your way.

5. Over revving accelerates emissions

Modern engines are efficient from the moment they are switched on, so revving up like a Formual 1 car in pole position wastes fuel and increases engine wear. Using your gears wisely can also reduce revs. If you drive a diesel car, try changing up gears when the revs reach 2000rpm. For a petrol car, change up at 2500rpm.

6. Idling is wasting fuel

When the engine is idling, you’re wasting fuel and adding to CO₂ emissions. If you’re likely to be stationary for more than three minutes, switch off the engine.

Why not let us know on this blog what your tips are for saving money on fuel and reducing your carbon footprint?