Global passenger electric vehicle sales (battery-electrics and plug-in hybrids) are expected to increase 21% in 2024 to 16.7 million, with 70% of those being fully electric, according to Bloomberg. For those who already have an EV or are planning to get one in one in 2024, investing in sustainable car accessories can make a major difference when aiming to further support an eco-friendly lifestyle. From the ultimate convenience of reusable shopping bags in the trunk to eco-friendly seat covers — and environmentally-conscious air fresheners, there are no shortage of options for those looking to minimise their carbon footprint even more when on the road.
Stocking up on the basics
EVs have evolved greatly over the years, going from small vehicles with limited range on a charge and interior space to coming in various shapes and sizes — including 3-row SUVs and even full-size pickup trucks. Today’s models offer features such as a quiet engine and remote engine start, as well as panoramic roofs and lane departure warning. While ratings and reviews provide insight on today’s top EV models and the features they come along with, stocking your EV with sustainable basics is a must as a first-time EV owner. The Drive points out the fact that automakers and suppliers alike are making use of sustainable fabrics for vehicles, with the BMW iX and Mercedes EQS each featuring reclaimed ocean plastics. When it comes to accessories, however, floor mats are a great add-on when aiming to protect your flooring, especially in winter weather. When ensuring that accessories like car mats are sustainable, opting for those made from recycled or natural materials is the way to go. Other sustainable car accessory basics include solar-powered car ventilators, though it’s imperative to realise that these can come with some drawbacks (such as being unable to use them on hot but cloudy days or when mounted on tinted windows).
Eco-friendly car freshener options
Everyone enjoys a good smelling car, and with a variety of options there are no shortage of scents and types of car air fresheners to choose from. Hanging cardboard fresheners, vent clips, gel fresheners, and sprays are just a few of many different types out there, though it’s imperative to realise the impact that car air fresheners can have on the environment. According to Car Cologne, one of the main concerns regarding car air fresheners is their chemical composition. “Many conventional air fresheners contain harmful substances such as phthalates, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).” Car Cologne goes on to explain that when these compounds react with other elements in the air, they can produce pollutants that are both harmful to human health as well as the environment. “Not only do they contribute to air pollution, but prolonged exposure to some VOCs has been linked to health issues, from minor headaches to more severe respiratory problems.”
In addition to the concerns regarding the chemical composition of car air fresheners, the plastic waste associated with them is another downside — not to mention that they can be irritating to those who experience health concerns like asthma or allergies. Eco-friendly, organic options, on the other hand, offer non-toxic solutions that involve benefits such as environmentally friendly and biodegradable packaging. In addition to investing in eco-conscious brands, DIY options can allow you to create a great air freshener with a few basic items. According to an article from the Dominion Post, simply placing a small bowl or open jar of baking soda for a couple days can freshen a space. “If you’re craving a bit more scent, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to the baking soda,” notes the Dominion, though it’s imperative to take care when doing so due to the powerful nature of essential oils (and the fact that they can have negative effects on both pets and people).
Reusable shopping bags — the ultimate EV accessory
Investing in reusable shopping bags to live in the trunk of your EV can yield major benefits. A 2022 article from the Yale Ledger, for example, highlights the advantages of reusable shopping bags, noting that they have the ability to prevent pollution, save resources, and save money. For example, it’s noted that approximately eight percent of the world’s total oil production is used to make plastic, and that 12 million barrels of oil are used to manufacture the 30 billion plastic bags that are consumed in the United States alone each year. “Furthermore, plastic bags use fossil fuels as they are shipped around the country or the world,” notes the article, further going on to underline the fact that each plastic bag is used, on average, for just 12 minutes.
When it comes to saving money, it’s imperative to remember that many stores now charge for plastic bags — in fact, a 5p charge for carrier bags was introduced in 2015 in English supermarkets, and in 2021, the charge was increased to 10p and extended to all businesses, according to The Guardian. Since then, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) noted that the number of plastic bags used across all retailers had fallen 35%, from 627m in 2019-20 to 406m in 2022-23. Instead of paying for a plastic bag (or several) while out and about, having reusable bags ready to go in the trunk of your EV can present many advantages. In addition to saving money, you’ll have peace of mind that your reusable bags are much more durable — not to mention that you’ll be doing your part in minimising plastic waste as well. When aiming to further instil reusables as part of your EV lifestyle, using a small reusable bag can work to serve as a sustainable in-car garbage bin.
Investing in an EV is a fantastic step to take for those aiming to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. However, it’s imperative to consider just how environmentally friendly your car accessories are — from the air fresheners to the must-have necessities like reusable shopping bags.
Photo by Michael Marais on Unsplash.
