Greener Driving with Frizzell

Whether you prefer to start walking a bit more, dust off your bicycle or start car sharing, you can make a difference to the environment and save money.

Cycling and walking can often be quicker than driving or public transport and you won't have to sit in so many traffic queues! And you may be surprised that you enjoy the benefits of the additional exercise more than you think.

Car sharing is a great way to save money on petrol costs, reduce the number of cars on the road and it can make those boring journeys more sociable. Is there a car share scheme at your work? If not, why not set one up?

Sometimes we cannot be as green as we'd like, as many essential journeys made in our cars are because public transport and cycling is not appropriate. But that doesn't mean you can't be green whilst driving, saving you money and still looking after the environment. So what can you do to drive green and save money on fuel costs?

Speeding can make your car less efficient. The UK government website Directgov states that you use around 30% more fuel at 70mph rather than 50mph. You can save money by properly infalting your tyres.  Directgov estimates that properly inflating your tyres can increase fuel efficiency by 3%. You can get the correct tyre pressure from your car manufacturer or check with Dunlop at www.driversknow.co.uk/tyres/clinic/pressure.

Taking off roof and bike racks when you're not using them and unloading your car of unnecessary items can reduce the weight and wind resistance which can then reduce the amount of fuel your car needs to use. Well maintained cars tend to run more efficiently so why not give your car an extra service?

If you fancy buying a new car you could save money on car tax and fuel. You can check fuel economy of new cars at www.vcacarfueldata.org.uk.

By going 'green' and walking more, lift sharing or catching the bus you could reduce your annual mileage and benefit from reduced car insurance premiums with Frizzell, UNISON's recommended car insurance provider.

So why not get a car insurance quote and see how much you could save!