What if we didn’t have truck drivers? Where would Amazon be today? How would farm fresh get to so many different tables? How would we experience cultural similarities and differences right here at home in such a short amount of time? We need truck drivers and large transportation vehicles to make our world go round. According to the American Trucking Association (AMA), “Trucks deliver 100 percent of all consumer products and 70 percent of all freight tonnage.” But, this doesn’t mean we can’t also be conscious of our environment and the things we can do to promote a thriving, healthy world economically and safely. It’s no secret that trucks can put out Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions that harm our trees, crops, and selves. However, the solution doesn’t have to be ridding the world of vehicular travel. It’s actually much, much more doable than that. It’s a matter of being aware of the ways we can save money and the planet while still truckin’ along!
Programs developed by organizations and the Government are already taking action to reduce carbon footprints via better engines, filters and so on. The question is though, what can you do to minimize your carbon emissions? Well, the AMA, AAA, and the US Government say lots of things! Here are six tips for reducing emissions on the road:
When planning your route, take the most direct one.
Not only will this save you time, but it also saves you money on fuel and other necessary resources. Cutting mileage cuts fuel use, which results in better financial results and less CO2 in the air that we breath.
Make sure tires are properly inflated.
Improper PSI can alter your gas mileage, resulting in more costs and more emissions. When your tire isn’t meeting inflation standards, your vehicle has to work harder to achieve its proper performance.
Always replace dirty air filters.
This will make sure that your air flow is not blocked. Just like in your home, this can lower your costs by eliminating excess work for your equipment and lowering gas mileage rates.
Make sure spark plugs are properly maintained.
This will ensure a proper combustion cycle, meaning that your cylinders fuel will run its course as it should, instead of running through without burning. There are even specific, more fuel efficient plugs on the market!
Ensure engine oil is always up to date and the correct type.
Simply put, changing your engines oil keeps your vehicle running efficiently. It ensures proper lubrication, cooling and more.
Be mindful of your driving technique.
Angry-type driving raises CO2 emissions. When you slam on the gas, breaks, or speed, you’re raising your fuel usage. By reducing these actions while driving, you’ll lower your emissions as well as your cost for fuel.
In short, these are very easy things that anyone can do, and should be doing. Not only are they good for reducing CO2 emissions, but they are also more cost effective and promote better equipment maintenance and safety.
It takes a lot of effort and encouragement sometimes for individuals to flourish, and that’s what Texarkana’s Dragon Boat Festival is all about. This year, Wadley Regional Medical Center is presenting this event, benefiting HandsOn Texarkana, an organization that offers volunteer opportunities and group education across multiple topics. Their goal is to inspire the community and increase local contributions to those areas in need. To learn more about their mission, visit their 
