As a kid, nature has always been the perfect companion to your imagination. Whether it was tracing shapes in the clouds, climbing trees, or running through swathes of grass on a summer afternoon, the great outdoors offered plenty of ways to keep you entertained. It’s no wonder then, that as an adult, you’re concerned about the kind of world you are leaving behind for your kids. Fortunately, there are several small tweaks you can incorporate into your daily life that can result in big changes. So, here are some simple new habits you can adopt to make a difference in your own way. 

1. Lowering fuel consumption

Driving more consciously is a sure-shot way to practice mindfulness when taking your car out on drives. For instance, instead of making daily trips to buy groceries, plan your errands in a way that reduces unnecessary driving. List and club tasks that you can complete on the same trip. The lockdown during the pandemic is an excellent example of how reduced automobile usage can led to a positive impact on the environment. And if you require more than one car, it would be a good idea to invest in an electric vehicle that can help you drive guilt-free. 

Alternatively, this could also mean opting for a bicycle or simply walking if the distance is shorter. And whenever possible, you can even try carpool for daily commutes to the office to reduce the pollution.

2. Sensible driving

While driving your car enthusiastically could be loads of fun, it could eventually cause parts to deteriorate overtime if you constantly push the pedal or are a rough driver. It is advisable to go easy on the accelerator and brakes as sudden braking and acceleration will not only affect the tyres but also demand more fuel. Periodic maintenance ensures every part of the car works smoothly, which means optimum combustion of fuel and low emissions. Regular tune-ups and keeping an eye out for warning signs are essential to ensure the engine’s long life. It is also prudent to follow the recommendation of the car manufacturer when it comes to suitable oil brands and maintenance intervals.

3. Opt for fuel-efficient vehicles

There are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to cars. A Hybrid car can provide you with better fuel efficiency while helping you keep your car’s CO2 emissions low. But if you are a conscious traveller, looking for the least possible polluting option, an electric vehicle (EV) makes for a great choice.

EVs are on their way to becoming the future of mobility, and the recent breed of battery powered cars are more than capable of competing with their traditionally fuelled counterparts when it comes to power, efficiency and new-age features. To reduce vehicular pollution, you can consider switching to a complete zero-emission car, such as the MG ZS EV, which is powered by a 44.5kWh lithium-ion battery. This puts out power of 143PS and 353Nm of peak torque. When it comes to performance, the MG ZS sprints from 0-100km/h in 8.5 seconds and has an impressive range of 419 km per charge. Other benefits that come your way with an EV, include drastic cost savings on fuel, no hassle of changing oil or oil filters regularly, and reduced maintenance. 

4. Avoid idling

Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to rev up your car’s engine before putting it into gear and driving it forward. The best way to warm up your car engine is by driving the car. There are other ways to reduce vehicular pollution such as turning off your engine at a signal where you have to wait more than ten seconds. The good news, however, is that cars like the MG ZS EV include some of the latest technology features, such as push-button, start-stop, and auto-cut which make restarting the car easier on your engine and help you save money as well. Win-Win!

There’s an adage that says, “Pollution, pollution, there is no solution.” But, unless we understand the impact of our daily habits, we can’t begin to challenge them. So, remember these tips the next time you pick up your car keys to head out on a drive. After all, if there’s one thing you can do to make the world a better place, it is to #ChangeWhatYouCan!