Introduction

With around 40,000 instructors on the DVSA register, imagine the impact if we all taught eco-driving. Small changes like smoother acceleration and better anticipation can cut costs, improve safety, and reduce emissions. Here’s how I made my business more sustainable, and why it matters for our industry – Vicky Folland

This included blood pressure, heart rate, body mass index and blood tests, plus advice on fitness, a stop smoking campaign and diabetes awareness. It was a great opportunity to raise awareness as not many of us really stop to think about our own health, never mind thinking about getting a check up.

Why I Chose to be Sustainable

I’ve been a driving instructor for nearly 20 years, but my journey into sustainability started at home. My son, part of his school eco-council, encouraged us to look at our family’s carbon footprint. It was higher than average, mainly due to my mileage for work. That made me think, what could I change, what could I do better?

I began offsetting emissions, switched to an electric car, and started teaching eco-driving so learning to drive remains sustainable for future generations. The UK Government has also committed that “we will be the first generation to leave the environment in a better state than that in which we found it” (Environmental Principles Policy Statement, 2023). That’s a goal I want to help with.

Climate Change in Simple Terms

Climate change means long-term shifts in weather patterns caused by human activity. The greenhouse effect is a natural process that keeps Earth warm, but we’ve added too many greenhouse gases by burning fossil fuels and cutting down forests. This is trapping more heat, like putting a blanket on. This is leading to global warming—rising seas, extreme weather, and threats to wildlife and people.

What Sustainability Really Means

Sustainability is about meeting today’s needs without stopping future generations from meeting theirs. It rests on three pillars:

  • Economic growth – supporting jobs and businesses
  • Social inclusion – ensuring fairness and wellbeing
  • Environmental protection – looking after natural resources

Getting this balance right is crucial for a sustainable economy and for meeting the UK’s net zero targets.

Why Eco-Driving?

Transport makes up 27% of UK emissions, with road vehicles a major contributor. Eco-driving is one of the fastest ways to cut emissions. Simple habits like:

  • Smooth acceleration and braking
  • Steady motorway speeds (using cruise control when safe)
  • Avoiding idling
  • Keeping vehicles well maintained
  • Planning journeys and anticipating hazards

One driver making these changes might not seem like much, but across millions it adds up. And with around 40,000 instructors on the DVSA register, we’re in a unique position to shape habits from day one.

The Benefits Go Further

Eco-driving isn’t just good for the planet. It also means:

  • Lower running costs
  • Safer, smoother driving
  • Stronger reputations for instructors and schools
  • Better preparation for the UK’s Net Zero 2050 target

One Lesson at a Time

Climate change can feel overwhelming, but progress starts small. For instructors, that means weaving eco-driving into lessons. For families, it’s recycling or switching to cleaner energy.

It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. Every conscious choice makes a difference. Together, we can support growth, protect the environment, and create a safer, cleaner future for generations to come.

Vicky Folland M.Inst.IMTD – Vicky’s Driving Tuition

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