Saving Fuel and Money with Global Positioning Systems

                                                                                         

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) have not received a great deal of publicity, but these biofriendly devices are likely to have a major impact on our lives as they gain wider acceptance. According to a survey by Motorola, almost 50 percent of responding businesses using GPS cited significant savings-reducing travel distances by an average of over 230 miles per week, which amounts to more than $900 a week in fuel savings at current prices. In addition, these businesses saved 54 minutes per day, which translates into annual labor saving of $5,484 per employee.

Originally developed for the military, civilians now also can benefit from GPS technology. Although the technology of GPS is complex, the principles on which it is based are simple. In plane geometry, the location of a point can be accurately determined relative to two other points of known location, so as to form a triangle. With GPS, your location is determined using satellites as reference points, using radio signals. This technology is so precise that you can determine your location anywhere on Earth within a few feet.

Many motorists already enjoy the benefits of GPS, resulting in fuel savings, less time spent on the road and less frustration by being able to avoid heavy traffic areas. Some insurance companies even offer lower rates on GPS-equipped vehicles, because of increased driver safety (some GPS units can warn users of potential traffic hazards).

Another use of GPS is by the airlines. Recently, the FAA conducted tests using GPS, rather than ground-based radar to guide aircraft routes. At San Francisco International Airport they monitored a Boeing 777 flight from Auckland, New Zealand, to check on potential fuel savings with GPS.

The test was a success. It turned out that by using GPS, a more direct route can be taken, resulting in improved fuel economy and saved time. Following this first of a kind flight, the Airways New Zealand pilot noted that the flight saved 1,200 gallons of jet fuel (resulting in a 12-ton reduction in carbon emissions) and in addition the plane arrived five minutes early. (3)

The GPS-based system requires pilots and air traffic controllers to work together more closely. According to the FAA`s Acting Administrator Robert Sturgell, the new system will cut fuel costs, improve safety and reduce delays. "From taxi to touch down, it`s just flat-out green," Sturgell said.

The FAA plans to gradually implement the GPS-based system throughout the nation. That is good news, not only for the airline industry and its passengers, but also for the planet. Greater efficiency and fewer harmful emissions will benefit everyone.

On the path of using available fuels more effectively to achieve a greener and cleaner planet is Biofriendly Corporation. This company has produced Green Plus®, a liquid fuel catalyst that provides a cleaner, more linear fuel burn in internal combustion engines, resulting in fewer harmful emissions, increased torque and better fuel economy.

For more information about Green Plus visit the Biofriendly website at www.biofriendly.com.

About the author:
Peter Verhoeff is a freelance writer who contributes articles on environmental issues for Biofriendly Corporation. More information about environmental issues can be found at http://www.biofriendly.com.

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