If you’ve filled up at the pumps lately or if you’ve sat in bumper to bumper traffic on the way into work, then I share your frustrations. The rising gas prices and increasing road congestion are only getting worse.

While the cost of operating a vehicle is more expensive than ever, the good news is there are small things each and every one of us can do to make a big difference when it comes to road trips and the environment.

Such as:

• Keeping your tires properly inflated and servicing your vehicle on a regular basis.
• Removing access weight such as roof racks, when not in use, and items from your trunk.
• Reducing your highway speed or using cruise control because fuel consumption increases above 90 km/hr.
• Avoiding jackrabbit starts and hard braking.
• Combining your trips to save fuel and time or consider carpooling.

This year, CAA South Central Ontario, Ontario Tire Stewardship, Plug’nDrive and Trees Ontario are all encouraging you to Take the Greener Route at the 2012 Green Living Show (April 13 – April 15, Direct Energy Centre).

Changing the slightest of behaviours can have a huge impact on your carbon footprint – whether it means choosing eco-friendly driving habits or eco-friendly products.

While you’re at the Green Living Show, test your eco-smarts by taking the Autogreen Challenge and be entered to win great prizes.

For more information visit www.caasco.ca/autogreen

Let’s take the Greener Route, together.

Gina Banwait, CAA SCO