Rapid starts and stops and quick accelerations can lower gas mileage from 5 percent in the city to 33 percent on the highway. Patient driving not only saves money, it is safer for you and your family. Source: www.fueleconomy.gov

Clean Out Your Vehicle

Carrying heavy items in your vehicle lowers fuel efficiency. Remove heavy items from your vehicle as soon as you get home.

Maintain Your Vehicle

Follow your vehicle's recommended maintenance schedule, and promptly handle needed repairs. A vehicle that runs well lasts longer and uses less fuel.

Take Care Of Tires

You can improve gas mileage by more than 3 percent by keeping tires properly inflated and aligned. Find your vehicle's recommended tire pressure on the door frame or in your owner's manual.

Car Washing

Washing your vehicle at a commercial car wash generally uses less water than washing your vehicle at home. Most car washes must comply with water contamination guidelines. The water runoff from home car washes goes into local waterways affecting the habitat.

Avoid Idling

Idling uses more fuel than starting your engine. Consider turning off your engine if you expect to idle for more than a minute or two.

Plan Errands

Combine errands into one trip. A long, multipurpose trip can use half as much fuel as several short trips. Avoid driving during rush hour, if possible.

You can eliminate some errands altogether by shopping online. To maximize savings, look for companies offering free shipping with a minimum order.

Alternative Transportation

Carpool, use community ride-share programs and take advantage of public transportation when available. For shorter trips, enjoy the added health benefit of walking or riding your bicycle.

Fill Up At Night

Refuel during cooler parts of the day to emit fewer gasoline vapors into the air and into your lungs. Also, avoid topping off the tank, and tighten the gas cap to keep gas from evaporating out of your vehicle's fuel tank.

Replace Your Vehicle

When it is time for a new vehicle, select the most fuel-efficient one that meets your needs. The U.S. Department of Energy provides gas mileage, air pollution ratings, safety and other information for 1985–2010 model vehicles. Go to www.fueleconomy.gov and click Find And Compare Cars.

One Step At A Time

Every day, you can make personal decisions that help the environment, save money and improve your health. Then, spread the word to your family, friends and business associates. There are many ways to begin green living. All it takes is changing your habits one step at a time. Before long, you and your family will be well on your way to living a greener life.

Updated Thursday, July 29, 2010