CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY THE ENVIRONMENTAL WAY

(20 May, 2002 - New York) As Memorial Day approaches, Americans from coast to coast are preparing to head for the highway. Driving contributes to air pollution and smog, exacerbating respiratory problems and obscuring scenic vistas. Vehicles also produce greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. To help address these issues, Environmental Defense is providing tips to make travel this holiday lighter on the environment and lighter on the budget.

“There are simple steps that motorists can take to make their cars and their driving habits more efficient. That adds up to more money in your pocket and less pollution in the environment,” said Dean Menke, pollution prevention specialist at Environmental Defense.

Check the tires.  Have your wheels aligned and keep your tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure wastes over two million gallons of gasoline in the United States every day.

Travel light and pack smart.  Avoid hauling unnecessary loads; extra weight decreases fuel economy and increases pollutant emissions. Placing luggage inside rather than on the roof or trunk of the vehicle maintains an aerodynamic profile, minimizing drag and increasing mileage.

Accelerate and decelerate smoothly and gradually.  Jack-rabbit starts consume up to 50% more fuel than slow, steady accelerations.

Know when to use the air.  Air conditioning can decrease your fuel efficiency by as much as 12% in stop-and-go traffic, so consider cracking the windows. But remember, at high speeds, driving with the windows open can also decrease the overall efficiency of the vehicle.

Park it, once there.  Once at your destination, consider parking your car and using other modes of transportation to get around. Walk to dinner, rent bikes to go shopping, or take the bus. Reducing the amount you drive can have the greatest benefit on the environment.

Support cleaner cars. Sign the Clean Car Pledge and express your support for cleaner technologies at http://actionnetwork.org/campaign/clean_car_pledge