It is often said that Millennials are one of the most environmentally-conscious generations active in today’s world. As such, it should come as no surprise that green driving is something that is very important to people within this age-range.

That said, there are a number of issues faced by the typical millennial. Many millennials can’t afford a brand new hybrid or electric vehicle and, perhaps more importantly, millennials aren’t the majorital representation of drivers. If green driving is to become more accepted, what can this generation to help encourage its wider adoption?

Green Driving Via Fuel Efficiency

Not everyone is interested in buying a new car, but there are still ways to make an existing car more efficient. This doesn’t just help the environment, it also helps save money and this might prove more crucial in promoting the benefits of eco-friendly driving.

Driving at 55 mph, for example, is often considered the optimal driving speed for fuel consumption. Anything above this uses more fuel without any benefits. Similarly, aggressive braking uses more fuel, as it causes the car to drive flat-out for as long as possible, as opposed to a more natural stop. All of these driving habits are easy enough to learn and, while millennials can teach other generations about these methods, they can also simply lead by example.

Car Pooling

One possible way to improve greener driving is to cut down on the number of cars on the road. If you and other people drive a similar route on a regular basis, why not encourage car pooling? This approach cuts down on cars being used, effectively reducing the emissions.

Car pooling requires someone to take the first step. By being observant and noticing opportunities that cut down on transport while still being effective, it’s much easier to encourage these communal actions. This will often fill a niche area, along routes and time periods when public transport isn’t a practical option, where many people feel they need to drive.

Encouraging Biofuel

While not everyone has an electric car – or even a hybrid – that doesn’t mean their current car cannot be improved. Many locations, such as the UK and various US states, allow specific types of biofuel on the road. There’s a good chance your car can accept these fuel sources, specifically if it’s a diesel engine, then why not make the change? Your car will have less emissions and possibly save you money. In turn, you can also spread the word to other diesel drivers. Many people don’t change over purely because they aren’t aware of the option.

Promoting Electric Motorsports

Despite the appeal and popularity of electric vehicles, the most popular motorsports are still based around traditional fuel variants. Formula 1, Nascar, the Indy 500, World Rally Championships and more are completely devoid of electric vehicles. Of course there are electric variants – with the likes of Formula E growing in reputation – but these need support and viewership to expand.

Another part of this is a slight case of professional ignorance. Car media, from magazines to television shows, are focused on the highest performance petrol cars. It can often be assumed that such electric varieties don’t exist, yet there are a number of electric hypercars currently in production.

Why aren’t these discussed more openly? Because many mediums cater to what they believe their audiences are interested in. A more open, louder discussion of electric vehicles could potentially stand to change that.

Business & Financial Encouragement

Cars and other transport vehicles form a vital backbone for many companies, from public transport operators to global logistics firms. While many countries and states are offering their own incentives,to adopt greener technology, some companies are going the extra distance, such as rewarding staff for greener driving habits.

Companies that do this should be applauded and, likewise, there’s nothing wrong with asking your own company do take up such initiatives. If it relies on vehicles for any purpose, than there is a possible room for improvement.

This same approach can also be used for your commercial and consumer habits. When possible, choose green companies over those that don’t protect the environment. Purchasing power is a great way to make companies and organisations take note, all while encouraging the businesses that have already taking action.

This is something that can be also be experienced when buying your own car. Studies show that millennials value fuel efficiency over extra luxuries, and this spending power can shape how the industry reacts.

Conclusion

Although it is a practical means of getting from one place to another, driving a nonetheless has some very strong, cultural influences. If you care about the environment and feel strongly about green driving, than it’s simply a case of changing cultural perspectives and increasing awareness of the possibilities currently available.

This is not something that will change overnight, but millennials are arguably in the best position to do something about it. As the youngest drivers around – the youngest millennial is 16 and at the age when driving is often first introduced – it is millennials that will have a big influence on younger generations. In time, many will also be teaching their own children and sharing these important, green ideals.