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17.3 A Driver's Ecological Responsibility
In Europe traffic causes hazardous amounts of pollution and one fourth of the greenhouse emissions of EU area.
The most common emissions are carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulates. Carbon dioxide is significant greenhouse gas causing climate warming. The amount of carbon dioxide is directly proportional with the amount of burned fuel.
We have been able to reduce somewhat the emissions of gas engines by prohibiting the use of lead in the fuel and by using catalyzers and particulate filters in diesel engines.
From all the pollution it is estimated that the particulates have the biggest effect on health. In Europe it is estimated that about 350 000 persons die prematurely every year because of the particulates. According to latest studies the particulates have negative effect on the growth of a fetus.
Modern gas engines use little fuel but produce high number of particulates. In the future also, the gas engines have to be equipped with particulate filters.
Economical Driving
The economical driving style is the easiest and fastest way to reduce traffic emissions. You usually save 5-15%.
Preheat the engine in cold weather.
Plan a route so that it is as short as possible and that it doesn't have unnecessary stops and goes.
Accelerate promptly to the desired speed and change to a high gear.
If the car has an indicator telling when it is time to change the gear, obey the instructions.
Economical rmp for an engine is 1500-2000.
Anticipate while driving and utilize the engine brake by using the clutch as late as possible.
Drive according to the rhythm of the traffic.
Service the car regularly. Check the tire pressures at least ones a month.
Ski box and roof-rack increase air resistance, so it is advisable to use them only when necessary.
If a vehicle is stationary for a reason other than an obligatory traffic obstruction, the engine may not be run for longer than two minutes. However, if the air temperature is below -15°C, the engine may be run for a maximum of four minutes before moving off.
Click here for more information (in Finnish)
Cars have a lot of material that becomes hazardous waste e.g. engine oil. Take care of their safe disposal.