Tightening our belts

Aside from gas company executives, no one enjoys high fuel prices.  But they are a small price to pay compared to Ukrainians who are dying for their freedom. 

During World War II, Americans were required, not just asked, to limit consumption of gasoline, textiles, sugar, meat, and a host of other items.  Limits on purchases were enforced via ration books.  Today, Americans are not being asked to restrict themselves as much.  While prices have been on the rise for months due to high consumer demand and continuing problems with the supply chain, the sharp rise in gasoline prices over the past few weeks is the direct result of Russia’s brutal invasion of the sovereign nation of Ukraine.  While Americans have been generationally conditioned to consume, consume, consume – the time has now come for Americans to conserve.  Nowhere is this more true than in consumption of fuels – not just gasoline but all fossil fuels.      

Given the continuing challenges in the supply line, most of us are stuck with the vehicles we’re driving now.  If you opted for a gas guzzler, you’re going to pay much more than those of us who drive more fuel efficient models.  (If you drive an electric vehicle, try not to rub it in our faces.)  That said, we can all do a few things to reduce our personal consumption. 

Obviously, first on the list is avoid unnecessary trips, like driving for pleasure or to take in the scenery. 

Keep your tires inflated to their recommended pressure – you can find it on the side of the tire or in your vehicle owner’s manual.

Keep your car windows closed when driving, even if it means turning on your car’s air conditioning.  It’s more efficient to drive with the A/C on than with the windows open - which creates wind drag and increases fuel consumption.

Don’t be a lead foot on the highway.  You don’t need to slow poke your way around town, but the faster you go over 60/mph on the highway, the greater the drag on your car.

Don’t over accelerate or slam on the brakes.   

When at a steady speed on the highway, use cruise control.  Otherwise, use your vehicle’s highest gear if that’s an option.

Consolidate many errands into fewer.  If you’re waiting in your car while your other half goes shopping, turn the car off.    

Speaking of consolidation, did you know some online retailers like Amazon allow you to consolidate your orders?  If you’re ordering multiple items, you’ll be presented with the option to have them sent in one shipment instead of separately.  It means you may get your shipment a day or two later.  But repressing one’s desire for instant gratification is worth saving the fuel. 

At home, be mindful of your use of heat and air conditioning.  If you sweat enough during the cold months that you’re throwing off your blankets at night, the heat is set too high.  Lower it each night by one degree until you’re comfortable under the covers.  Conversely, during warmer months, set the A/C so you can sleep comfortably over the covers. 

With COVID now manageable, companies are welcoming remote employees back into the workplace.  But they should continue to allow their employees the option to work from home in order to cut down on fuel consumption. 

These are a few things we can do to reduce consumption.  If we all tighten our belts just a little, we can have an impact.