Tips to Reduce Smog

Smog is a big problem, especially in larger cities, that has a negative impact on the health of residents. Some feel that there is nothing they can do to reduce this smog or that one person cannot make a difference. However, if each family made some small changes, it would all add up and create better air for everyone to enjoy.

Driving Alternatives

• One of the leading contributors to smog is emissions from vehicles. Carpooling helps residents cut down on the use of their cars. Not only will they save money on gas, they will also reduce the emissions being released into the air. If you must use your car, make it as fuel-efficient as possible by checking air pressure and keeping your car clean. Use alternative transportation, such as walking, public transportation or biking. If you are in the market for a new car, consider purchasing a hybrid car or a smaller car that is more fuel-efficient.

Driving Habits

• Some driving habits contribute to the car releasing more emissions into the air, resulting in more smog. Accelerate from a stop more slowly to keep emissions down. Speeding can reduce the efficiency of your car. Follow the speed limit and use your cruise control in appropriate areas, such as the freeway, to help keep your car at a steady pace. Try to keep your trips to the store to a minimum. Combine errands whenever you can. If something isn't a necessity, wait until your next trip out to pick it up. Fill up your gas tank in the early morning or late evening. Filling up in the middle of the day releases more pollutants into the air.

Home Appliances

• Cutting back on your use of certain objects in your home can also help cut down on the pollution you are putting into the air to contribute to the smog. Buy yard tools that do not have a gas motor. These motors put pollution into the air just like cars do. Use fans in your home in the summer months and keep the shades down rather than running the air conditioner. If you must use the air conditioning or heat, use a programmable thermostat so it runs less when you are not home or are sleeping.

Electricity Use

• You may feel that as long as you are using electricity rather than other types of energy, you are not contributing to smog. However, power plants that generate the electricity create a large amount of pollution. If everyone used less electricity, the power plants would need to generate less and would create less pollution. Turn off lights when they are not in use, as well as other objects that require electricity. Unplug electrical appliances when they are not in use. Even when they are not in use, some appliances still draw some electricity.