The anti-idling movement has continued to expand across Canada as municipalities and community groups take action to contribute to a healthier environment by putting a stop to unnecessary vehicle idling.
What is idling?
- If you keep your engine on while you wait to pick someone up, you are idling.
- An idling engine produces twice as many emissions as a moving vehicle.
- Turn your engine off and help improve air quality and slow climate change.
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Facts about idling you should know
- Idling increases you maintenance costs. When an engine idles, the engine oil becomes dirty more quickly than when a car is moving.
- The best way to warm up a car in winter is to drive it! Even at -18°C, most cars need only 15 to 30 seconds of idling before being driven.
- A single bus can take 40 vehicles off the road, saving 70,000 litres of fuel and 9 tonnes of pollutants each year!
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"I will just be a minute"
- 10 seconds of idling uses more fuel that restarting your car.
- Turn your engine off while you wait. Idling gets you nowhere and wastes your money.
- An idling engine gives you zero kilometres per litre.
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"But it is too hot outside"
- When you get in your car on a hot day, cool it quickly by rolling your windows down and start driving.
- Instead of using your air conditioner at low speeds, leave your windows open. This can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%.
- Close your windows at higher speeds and use your car's flow-through ventilation system. This will reduce wind resistance and increase fuel economy.
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What can I do?
- Turn your engine off while parked or waiting to pick someone up.
- Minimize use of remote car starters.
- Warm your car by driving it.
- Work from home, if possible.
- Combine your trips to reduce the use of your vehicle.
- Drive the speed limit. Lower speeds use less fuel.
- Keep your car well maintained.
- Use a block heater.
- Leave your car at home. Walk, cycle, carpool or take public transit.
- Shop by phone, mail or internet.
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Resources
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Related Links
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