Our carbon emissions can be minimised by inculcating better habits at home, opting for low-carbon travel alternatives and practising green consumerism—to respond positively to the climate emergency.
As a species, the biggest challenge we are currently facing is climate change. Over the last two centuries, human activities have pushed us to the brink of an ecological catastrophe.
However, we can embrace several sustainable habits to diminish the damage—for instance, minimising our carbon footprint. Here are a few measures that can make you more environmentally responsible.
Emissions from vehicles are the major contributor to greenhouse gases. Walk or cycle to closer destinations—whenever possible—or switch to an electric scooter or car. You may also consider using public transport—such as a bus, train or pool car—over a private car. If you have fewer choices, consider ride-sharing instead of riding or driving alone. Try to run all your errands on the same day to avoid another drive to the market.
You can make a greener choice by purchasing electrical appliances that are energy efficient. From opting for energy-efficient light bulbs to choosing electronic devices with a 5 or 6-star energy rating—you can reduce your home’s overall energy consumption.
When driving, roll down your windows and turn off your car’s most power-intensive device—the AC. Minimise the use of air conditioning or raise the temperature, allowing the system’s compressor to avoid overheating—thereby decreasing your carbon footprint.
Single-use plastic products like—disposable cups, cutlery, straws, plates, and stirrers—may be convenient to use, but they are hazardous to the environment. These products pollute our oceans and waterways—and require immense energy to be created and recycled. Quit using disposable cups, cutlery and the like, to minimise your carbon footprint.
Buying inexpensive, disposable items—from garments to furniture and cooking equipment—you may want to economise. However, cheap products typically don’t last long, and you will likely have to replace them with new products after they wear out or break. Therefore, it is better to invest in products that cost more but are long-lasting. When you buy quality products, you can reduce waste generation, and less waste will end up in landfills.
Disposal of trash consumes a lot of energy. Garbage trucks collect waste from our homes, deposit it in a processing centre or landfill, and then undergo processing that consumes more energy. However, if you compost organic waste generated from your kitchen, you can slash the volume of garbage headed for the landfill. Additionally, that compost can be used in your garden—for fertilising your plants.
All over the world, energy providers are offering greener tariffs. By opting for a company that offers electricity generated from wind, hydroelectric or solar energy, you can limit your house’s carbon emissions and also save more on energy bills. You can also install solar panels on the roof to slash your energy expenses and carbon emissions.
When you don’t need lights, switch them off to save energy. Another energy-wasting habit involves leaving devices plugged even when they are not in use. It is essential to note that electronic appliances draw energy even in standby mode. By unplugging appliances, you can slash power consumption.
By minimising your carbon emissions, you can protect the environment in several ways. Practice environmentally friendly habits at home, work, and even while travelling to a different place—these small changes are impactful and add up.
