Transportation

You Can Fuel Better

To reduce the impact on the planet and your pocket, increase your fuel efficiency and energy independence! Explore these solutions and Contact OM for any assistance.

	Auto Efficiency		Scooter
	Diesel Conversion		Electric Bicycle
	Biodiesel		Oil Press
	WVO Filtration		Biofuel Storage

Transportation Energy

According to the US Energy Information Administration, the United States consumes 378 million gallons of gasoline, which is more than 19 million barrels of petroleum every day. More than half the oil used to fill your gas tank is imported. This addiction equates to trillions of domestic income funding foreign and sometimes hostile areas. The facts are that this energy is dirty, difficult to extract, and diminishing.

Environmental Impact

Even more devastating are the environmental consequences of so much fossil fuel consumption. In addition to air, water, food and ecosystem pollution, the burning of fossil fuels is the leading contributor to the greenhouse gases that cause climate change.

Fossil fuels take millions of years to form, so by their very nature, they are non-renewable. Experts have reason to believe Peak Oil has already occurred or is about to occur, as the rate of discovery for oil is decreasing. Either way the fact remains that the supply of oil we so heavily depend upon to move people and goods around will run out. Lessening our dependency on oil will also lessen the impact when it’s no longer available. Sweden is leading the way – becoming the first country to declare a mission to break their fossil fuel dependency by the year 2020.

The Power to Kick the Oil Habit

You can declare your own mission of Energy Independence. This type of change has to start at the individual level. Government incentives and leadership can help, but ultimately each of us are responsible for fuel consumption. Fortunately there are many smart choices available, such as the advice below and the technologies and assistance from Organic Mechanic.

Conservation is Key

The “greenest” transportation options are walking and biking. In addition to zero emissions, you’ll enjoy the benefits of extra exercise! If you live too far to walk to work, consider your options for public transportation. Many cities are revisiting their bus or train systems, especially with federal stimulus money coming in.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates a typical passenger vehicle emits 5.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually or 20 lbs. of CO2 per gallon of gasoline it consumes. However, if your commute depends on driving, you still have options. Carpooling is a great way to cut emissions, save money, and connect with other people who care about conserving precious resources. Improve your fuel economy by implementing the following efficiency tips:

Drive Efficiently

Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 33% at highway speeds and 5% around town. Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed.
Observe the speed limit – every 5 MPH over 60 MPH can reduce fuel economy by 7-8%
Avoid idling – idling uses up fuel and gets you 0 miles per gallon

Proper Maintenance

A properly maintained vehicle maintains a 4% advantage in gas mileage over an out of tune car.
Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure
Use the recommended grade of motor oil to improve fuel economy by up to 5%

Warm Up

A warmed-up engine is more fuel-efficient than a cold one. Many short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as one multipurpose trip covering the same distance.
Letting your car idle to warm will burn more fuel than will be saved by driving with a warm engine.

Trip Plans

Talk with co-workers and friends to share expenses and company while commuting.
Look into local buses, trains, and metros for quick inexpensive public transport.
Use sites like Craigslist for rideshares - it works well as long as you are safe!

How to Green Your Transportation

Organic Mechanic is here to walk you through the process. Just click on the product links to learn more or Contact OM for help!