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Living sustainably means living smarter. Through this site you’ll learn how to reduce your impact on the environment and save money.

Click here to create your 'Next Step' Plan.

Goals:

I want to save money on fuel

The following tips will help you to achieve this goal.

Small steps

Enrol your kids in a walking school bus

Using a walking school bus has benefits for parents and kids.

Walk or cycle instead of driving for those short trips

Car engines use 20% more fuel when cold. One third of all car rides cover less than two kilometres – not long enough for the engine to warm up - and two thirds are shorter than six kilometres.

Stick to the speed limit and save fuel

Travelling at over 100km/hr can increase your fuel consumption by up to 10%.

If you're idling for more than 30 seconds, turn your engine off and save petrol

Even when idling, your car is using fuel. It is better to switch off your car if you are going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds.

Switch off air conditioning and demisters when they have done their job

Air conditioning and demisters rely on the motor going to run them. If you switch them off after they have done their job you will be using less fuel.

To save fuel remove roof and bike racks when not in use

Carrying extra weight increases fuel use by about 2% for every 50kg.

Choose locally produced food when you can

Locally produced food supports your community businesses and reduces the emissions created by transporting food long distances.

Medium steps

Use public transport when you can

Using public transport saves you money on petrol and reduces your carbon dioxide emissions.

To save fuel, keep your car well serviced and your tyres pumped

This can minimise fuel use and environmental impact.

Car pool or join a car sharing scheme

Organise car ride sharing. This saves you money on fuel, lessens wear and tear on your car and is can be a social event! If you live in Auckland check out the Cityhop scheme.

If you can, consider working from home to cut travel time and save fuel

You’ll save time and money on transport.

Consider mowing your lawn with a push mower instead of a petrol mower

Try using a push mower for your lawns. Its good exercise, will save you money on fuel and has zero emissions.

Big steps

Consider buying a more efficient vehicle

When looking for a new car, compare the environmental performance of vehicles - a more efficient car can save you money, and reduce your carbon emissions. Check out the 'choosing the right car' page for more information.

Consider your travel options when looking for a new home — walking and cycling distance, or near public transport

When looking for a new house, check out places near your workplace, or near a public transport hub – you’ll be able to use the car less if you can walk or take the bus. Check for facilities close to your home, like a supermarket - this can save on grocery shopping trips in the car. Check out the Smarter Homes website for more information.

If you can, downsize to one car

If you have more than one car consider reducing the number of cars you own.