The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) believes all drivers can play an important role in protecting the environment.
With this in mind, the organisation has published a list of recommendations to help individuals improve their fuel economy – delivering benefits to both the planet and their bank balance.
Motorists that take regular short journeys are instead encouraged to either walk or cycle if they are able, while vehicle owners are advised to choose alternative green fuels that contribute to the reduction in CO2 emissions if possible.
Drivers should also stick to the speed limit at all times, as not only will this help to deliver safer roads for everyone, but avoiding unnecessary speeding can also help to improve fuel economy by up to 25 per cent.
Meanwhile, de-cluttering and removing any heavy items from a vehicle's boot can play an important part in helping to improve fuel efficiency and means individuals can travel further between fill-ups.
Furthermore, the IAM advises planning journeys in advance should become second nature to all drivers, as this means they are more likely to take the most efficient route possible to reach their destination and they are less likely to get lost along the way.
Anyone with a manual car should also make use of block gear changes when decelerating – for example going straight from fifth to second gear when braking – as this will help to significantly reduce the amount of fuel being consumed by the engine.
Finally, planning ahead when on the roads is essential to developing a smoother driving style. This means being observant and anticipating what is likely to take place up ahead on the road, resulting in drivers having to brake and accelerate less.
IAM chief examiner Peter Rodger concluded: "There are many simple ways to improve the fuel economy of your car. Everyone is capable of achieving them with small changes to their driving behaviour. You will not only save money, but become a safer driver as a result."