Irish motorists could slash their petrol costs by up to 13 per cent by changing their driving habits, it was claimed today.
Mr Tom Halpin, of Sustainable Energy Ireland, said drivers can play a part in reducing pollution and damage the environment by adopting more energy efficient driving.
Speaking at the launch of Energy Awareness Week, which runs until Friday, Mr Halpin noted that driving at 50 miles per hour rather than 70 mph decreases fuel consumption by 29 per cent and toxic emissions by 36 per cent.
Over a quarter of all carbon dioxide - the main greenhouse gas - produced in Ireland comes from motorists, while over a third of all fuel is used in transport. Energy consumption is set to rise by 42 per cent by 2010, which would result in a massive increase in Ireland's contribution to damage to the global environment, Mr Halpin said.
"We urgently need to explore the realistic options we have to reduce fuel consumption," he said.
Motorists are encouraged to avoid using their car for short journeys, avoid rush hour, car share with work colleagues and to try to combine essential trips, like school runs and shopping missions.
Proper maintenance of vehicles, including tyres, is also essential for fuel savings. Lower than recommended tyre pressure can increase fuel consumption by up to three per cent and significantly increases wear and tear.
Sustainable Energy Ireland is a statutory body funded under the National Development Plan, with programmes also part-financed by the EU.