The world of energy and fuel has been transformed by the discovery of oil and gasoline, a discovery that ushered in an industrial revolution and marked a turning point for history.

Nowadays, as that same world continues to turn and shift towards sustainable and renewable energy, gasoline and other conventional fuels serve as the bedrock by which society functions. While society may not be fully ready to use renewables as of the present, gas is still there to serve our needs.

That does not mean that you cannot promote a sustainable lifestyle while using gas. In addition to being more environmentally friendly, conserving gas is more economical in the long run. Something simple such as adopting better driving habits and behavior can not only ensure safe car travel, but contribute significant savings at the gas pump.

Here are a few ways to improve your car’s gas mileage.

Keep your car well-maintained. Part of responsible vehicle ownership are the regular servicing, tune-ups and maintenance. Keeping your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations will go a long way towards ensuring that your vehicle is always efficient and less wasteful. Even if your car seems to be in tip top shape, without regular maintenance, there can be no guaranteeing that it can give you the desired optimum fuel economy, performance, and longevity.

Be aware of major and minor malfunctions. In relation to the first point, always stay on top of minor problems before degradation makes them worse. For instance, you should replace a flat tire immediately, and make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires not only reduce your fuel economy, they wear down much more quickly. They affect the handling and braking capability of your vehicle, and can also pose a risk through overheating and sudden blowouts. Needless to say, engine problems should be addressed by an immediate visit to a repair shop.

Drive responsibly. On the road, efficient fuel conservation depends on proper driving behavior. Going too slow or too fast will be considerably more inefficient, while sudden starts or stops can greatly affect fuel consumption. Idling for more than a minute, meanwhile, is usually unnecessary and wastes fuel. Shutting off the engine is more economical.

If you are driving a car with a manual transmission, try to upshift as soon as you can without “lugging” the engine. Skip-shifting — for instance, going directly from first gear to third — could also be practical in certain situations.

Always be mindful of your energy consumption. A general tip towards being more economical and environmentally friendly with your vehicle is to always be mindful of how you use your fuel. Minimize the use of air-conditioning whenever possible, and turn off any auxiliary devices that are not in use. Moreover, keep a plan in mind of the most efficient routes to take during your daily drive, and avoid unnecessary trips. Planning trips ahead of time can also give you the benefit of saving time and allowing you to avoid high traffic areas. Simple adjustments like these not only ensure you maximize the use of your vehicle, but also provide you with a way to save money and contribute towards a more sustainable society.

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