As Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer driving season, the realities of rising gas costs casts a dark cloud over our usually sunny summer vacations, activities and fun.  Many of my constituents are having trouble coping with rising gasoline prices, which have topped out at almost $4.00 a gallon.

As a Member of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, I would like to take another opportunity to share with you a campaign to encourage all Americans to reduce their gasoline use and save money by taking simple steps to drive more efficiently.

In partnership with The Wal-Mart Foundation and 15 other organizations, the Alliance to Save Energy is launching the Drive $marter Challenge campaign.  The goal of this innovative consumer education campaign is to reduce the amount of gasoline used by American drivers by helping them keep their cars in good working order, and to identify ways to drive more efficiently.

A key component of the campaign is the interactive Drive $marter Challenge website –  www.drivesmarterchallenge.org – which will give each visitor the opportunity to enter simple vehicle information to learn about potential dollar and CO2 savings by taking up to six gas-saving steps.  Another component of the campaign is the distribution of transportation efficiency tip cards, which will provide Americans with specific information about how to save money at the pump.

The resources available through the campaign will not only help consumers save money, but also will make them aware of the important connection their simple gasoline-saving actions have in reducing overall energy use and improving the environment for their community and the nation as a whole.

I have taken the Drive $marter Challenge, and I urge you to do the same. The tips and resources available through the website are aimed at encouraging drivers to use overdrive gears and cruise control when available and appropriate; avoid idling; combine errands to drive the shortest distance; avoid excess weight in the trunk; and carpool, bike, walk, or use public transportation whenever possible. By taking these simple steps, the average American family could save over $600 annually. 

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