Automobile Usage

Our driving habits represent one of our largest impacts on the environment. In addition to being a leading cause of green house gas emissions, and fossil fuel depletion, our driving habits have a direct impact on the air quality right here at Furman and in the upstate of South Carolina. In fact, about half of the air pollution in the United States comes from cars and trucks cars and trucks. 

Two ways we can significantly reduce air pollution is by driving less, and when we have to drive, driving smart.

Drive Less This does not mean we have to stay at home:

• Walk or ride your bicycle on campus.
• Carpool every time you have to drive.
• Shop by phone or email.
• Telecommute when possible.
• Take public transportation.

Drive Smart To keep pollution to a minimum

• Combine your errands into one trip, by planning carefully.
• Turn off the engine if you will be idling over 10 seconds.
• Keep your car tuned.
• Keep your tires properly inflated.
• Stop at the click when filling up with gas.
• Accelerate gradually.
• Obey the speed limit.

Fuel Economy, a website from the Department of Energy, has more driving tips and the most current information on gas mileage, greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution ratings, and safety information for new and used cars and trucks.