You can become the first line of defense against pollution and save money, too.

Limit sources of pollution:

• Properly dispose of used oil. Change your own oil and recycle it, or take your vehicle to a professional for service to prevent spills.
• Keep emissions-control devices on your vehicle working properly. Follow your owner’s manual service recommendations for changing the PCV valve, air and oil filters, and spark plugs. Fix engine problems quickly.
• Combine trips. A cold engine is less efficient and gets lower mileage than one at normal operating temperatures. Doing several errands on one trip will ensure you get the best mileage for your fuel dollars.
• Recycle old car batteries. Nearly all battery components can be reused, and recycling keeps lead and acid out of landfills and drinking water. The same is true of old tires.
• Be careful with gasoline.
• Flammable and toxic, gasoline also contains benzene, a cancer-causing chemical that can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
• Do not overfill small engines, and clean up spills immediately with cat litter or absorbent pads.
• Store approved containers away from combustible materials.
• Do not use gasoline or kerosene as a solvent, paint thinner or weed killer.

Limit your impact on the environment:

• Consider renting larger vehicles. If you only need a large vehicle once or twice a year, consider renting one for those occasions, and purchase a more economical vehicle for day-to-day driving needs.
• Pay attention to emissions ratings. Some vehicles are rated low-emissions vehicles (LEV), ultra-low emissions (ULEV), and super-ultra-low emissions (SULEV). Driving a vehicle that gets better fuel economy may produce fewer greenhouse-gas emissions.
• Consider vehicles with optional engine and transmission choices which can improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. While shopping, ask which models have these options available.
• Check automotive test-crash test ratings. Some larger vehicles have a higher center of gravity that makes them prone to rolling over in a crash. These are available online at www.nhtsa.dot.gov or www.iihs.org.

Maintain your car properly:

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. You'll ensure better fuel economy and more dependable operation.
• Maintain correct air pressure in the tires. Low air pressure causes higher fuel consumption, more wear on the vehicle and dangerous handling in an emergency.
• Always have your vehicle serviced immediately if the “Check Engine” light comes on.

Source: AAA