The best way to save money and CO2 emissions is to walk or cycle to your destination. It will also help to keep you fit! To find local cycle maps and more information on cycling in your area, visit Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity: www.sustrans.org.uk.

If your destination is too far to walk or cycle, use public transport wherever possible. Taking a bus or train uses far less CO₂ than driving in your own car.

Download the Cumbria Public Transport Map, which features bus, rail and ferry journeys available in Cumbria. You can also ask for a free copy of the ‘Cumbria and Lakesrider', a timetable booklet that includes buses, trains and ferry services in the county. Contact the Public Transport Information Officer, Cumbria County Council, The Courts, Carlisle, CA3 8NA or telephone (01228) 606705.

For other public transport information, visit the Traveline website or contact them on 0870 608 2608.

Smart Driving

If you must drive, drive ‘smart' - this means using less fuel and extending the life of your car. Follow these ‘smart driving' tips below:

• Keep tyres at the correct pressure. If the tyres are under-inflated, the engine needs to work harder, thereby burning up more fuel than necessary. Check and adjust tyre pressure regularly.
• Don't carry extra luggage in the car - the lighter the weight of the car, the lower the fuel consumption.
• Stay within the speed limit - the higher the speed, the more fuel you burn.
• Avoid harsh braking and accelerating, which burns more fuel and increases wear on the car. Slow down early!
• Don't rev the car - it wastes energy. For a diesel car, change up a gear at 2000 rpm; for a petrol car, change up a gear at 2500 rmp.
• Don't keep the engine idling. If you are likely to be stationary for more than 3 minutes, switch off the engine.

For more information on smart driving, visit the Department for Transport Act on CO² website.