In an ideal world, everyone would drive a hybrid vehicle, saving the earth from the harm caused by fuel emissions and saving the driver lots of money due to higher fuel efficiency. Obviously this is a very unlikely scenario though and gas-guzzling SUVs still rule the road. But just because you don't own a hybrid, doesn't mean you can't drive in an evnironmentally responsible way.

Simple steps could save £2.2 billion in fuel each year currently wasted because of sloppy driving habits including poor trip planning and vechicle air-conditioning abuse.

The RAC, a U.K. car transportation organization has some useful tips to increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency and decrease the negative effects driving can have on othe environment.

- Check the pressure of your tires to ensure they are properly inflated. Tires that aren't adequately inflated make your engine work harder, thus requiring the use of more fuel.

- Take some weight out of your trunk by getting rid of anything unneccessary. Added weight at the rear of your car increases fuel consumption because of the load on the engine.

- Following a regulated speed limit reduces emissions and will save you money in the long run.

- Of course there will be times when you'll hit unexpected traffic snafus, but try to avoid these by traveling when traffic flow is steadier and doesn't require you to idle or stop and start your car repeatedly.

- Speaking of idling, try your best to avoid it, but if you anticipate you'll be in the same place for three minutes or longer, it's better to turn off the engine until you need to move again.

- Plan ahead and research your route to a location before you get in the driver's seat. Google and Yahoo both have easy-to-use map features to help you plan your trip. Sometimes you'll discover shorter alternate routes you didn't know about, and you'll avoid getting lost and driving around searching for your destination.

» Guardian