Using your car less

We know how important your car is to you. But by making some small changes to the way you travel you’ll see big savings on fuel and reduce CO₂ emissions at the same time. The Energy Saving Trust can provide in-depth advice and support on reducing the environmental impact of transport for individuals, businesses and communities. Here are some top tips:

Share your car

Car sharing cuts individual car journeys and CO₂ emissions. You’ll notice a difference in your pocket too. Car sharing clubs and schemes are popping up all over the country so there’s never been a better time to start. You could even set up a local one with family, friends or colleagues. Visit carplus.org.uk or liftshare.com

Check out the alternatives

You might not be able to give up all car journeys but walking, cycling or using public transport for some trips could make all the difference.

Alternative options include:

• Bus or Park and Ride. If you aged sixty or over, you can travel for free by using the senior citizens bus pass on local services during off-peak hours.

• Community Transport. Check with your local council to see what community transport is available such as demand responsive minibus service or ‘home to school’ transport.

• Wheels 2 Work. This scheme provides a moped for a period of up to 6 months at affordable rates.

Visit energysavingtrust.org.uk/travel for further information or transportdirect.info to plan journeys online from door-to-door and compare CO₂ emissions.