What makes an automotive component or service greener?

Not a simple answer.

Clearly, anything that can help you improve fuel economy is a good thing. Improve your gas mileage and you also reduce emissions. That's pretty simple. Let's go a bit deeper.

Consider remanufactured products - alternators, starter motors, water pumps and much more. You wouldn't think these parts are green in particular but they are - we're talking about reusing parts that would have otherwise wound up in the landfill. More importantly, you're eliminating the need to purchase a component made from virgin materials. You're doing your part to help protect the Earth's scarce resources. If everyone did it, well this could be huge.

Forward thinking companies are taking the initiative. They are reducing the emissions they generate in their manufacturing process. It's not practical or even possible to cut emissions to zero. What they can't eliminate, they offset by purchasing carbon credits. These credits go toward renewable energy projects such as windmills or carbon-eating programs like planting trees. You think it might be a good idea to support these kinds of companies? Yeah, we think so, too.

A well maintained car is, well, a greener car. Studies have shown that a properly maintained vehicle can get as much as 20% better gas mileage. Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommended service intervals. When that oxygen sensor needs replacing, replace it. Car out of alignment? That can have an impact on your gas mileage. Get it taken care of.

We've categorized green automotive parts and services into the following areas:

• Manufacturer Claim - The automotive supplier makes a specific claim regarding fuel improvement, emission reduction or maintenance savings.
• Third Party Certified - An independent third party has to evaluated and certified a particular claim.
• Certified Remanufactured Component - The product has been certified to contain a standard level of remanufactured materials.
• Carbon Footprint Reduction - The automotive supplier makes a commitment to reducing greenhouse gases and offsets what they can't.
• Regularly Scheduled Maintenance Components/Servicing - Typical replacement items/servicing that potentially effect your car's performance.
• Product Longevity/Recycling - The component simply lasts longer, extending the replacement interval. This reduces the amount of raw materials and energy required to produce the part itself, packaging, shipping, etc. The component materials can be efficiently recycled.

Earthgarage will work with automotive aftermarket manufacturers, industry trade associations, consumer/environmental groups and government regulatory agencies to develop collaborative, voluntary industry standards. Our goal is to produce transparent environmental guidelines, performance metrics and a standard ranking/scoring system.