Transportation

With gas prices rising, we have extra incentive to save on fuel. And of course, cutting back on fuel use is great for the environment. Here are some ways to reduce the amount of dollars you spend at the pump.

Alternatives to Driving

– Take the bus, carpool, walk, or ride your bike. Concerning the latter, just remember, it’s free, and you get exercise! Need a commuter bike? Check out the deals on used and refurbished bikes at the Reno Bike Project (www.renobikeproject.com; 250 Bell Street—in the alley between Bell and Ralston Streets, north of Second Street—Reno, 323-4488).

Get the Most Out of Your Tank

– You can ensure getting the best gas mileage out of your car by doing the following:

• Drive smoothly.

• Avoid excess speeding.

• Keep your car well maintained—replace spark plugs, air and fuel ilters when needed.

• Use the recommended octane fuel and grade of oil.

• Drive in the highest gear possible.

• Keep the tire pressure at the right level.

• Take excess baggage out of the car and remove racks and storage boxes from the roof.

• Switch off or turn down air conditioning and heating.

• Avoid unnecessary trips.

• Do all errands in one trip as your car is more efficient when it’s warmed up.

GREEN NOTE

“Unfortunately, the commonly held assumption that legally marketed household cleaners are safe to human health and neurological function is unwarranted. Legal standards for preventing harm from toxic cleaners are inadequate for several reasons: only a small fraction of hazardous chemicals are tested; federal regulations require only a small proportion of chemicals to be reported on labels; and guidelines about safe use of cleaning products are notoriously inaccurate and difficult to understand. In the face of steadily increasing rates of developmental disabilities, cancer and autoimmune systems dysfunction, the public has a right to know about the toxic chemicals they are exposed to.”—Psychologists for Social Responsibility