In the face of global warming, reducing our carbon footprint is one of the steps to help achieve world sustainability. According to TimeForChange.org, your carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases produced to directly and indirectly support human activities, resulting in tons of carbon dioxide. Here is a list of easy tips to reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment.
Reduce Use of Electricity
In the wake of the current digital age, the global warming crisis has ballooned, given the constant need to use electricity to recharge cell phones, lap-top computers, etc. According to CarbonFootprint.com, turning off electrical items is at the top of the list. These items include the television, DVD player, the lights and most importantly, your computer. Most lap-top computers come equip with a charger that acts like a vampire and sucks up a wealth of electricity. Turning them off and unplugging them is one of the best things you can do to save electricity.
Another way to reduce electricity and cut costs, is by turning down your central heating unit by a single degree can help lower your heating bill by roughly 8 percent. The site also recommends filling your dish washer and washing machine with a full load to save water and electricity. Hang-drying clothes to avert using the dryer in the summer and spring months is another recommended method to save electricity.
Limit Traveling
Carbon dioxide emissions into the air is another common cause of global warming. Limiting your use of your car is a great way to lessen cardon dioxide emission into the atmosphere. Try carpooling and even walking to your destination, if the weather permits. When replacing a vehicle, invest in diesel engines, in which you can make fuel with your own biodiesel fuel with waste vegetable oil.
Conserve Resources
Taking a tote bag to the grocery store when you go shopping is a great way to avert taking home plastic and/or brown paper bags that you might throw away. When using a computer, print only if necessary. Don't purchase bottled water; use a thermas. Recycle as much as possible. Purchase goods with less packaging. According to CarbonFund.com, manufactoring products produces roughly four to eight pounds of carbon dioxide for every pound of product.
Reduce Your Water Usage
Taking shorter showers, not running the water while brusing your teeth and turning off the water while in the shower are all great ways to save water. According to CarbonFund.com, these acts can save thousands of gallons of water annually.
While our direct actions can contribute to global warming, a whopping 60 percent of what we do indirectly, like buying and using goods and services, is the saboteur to the environment. Being mindful of consumption habits is one of the keys to reducing our carbon footprint and achieving sustainability.
Sources
- Carbon Footprint. "Carbon Footprint Reduction."
- Carbon Fund. "Reduce Your Carbon Footprint"
- Time For Change. "What Is a Carbon Footprint"
Lianna Albrizio - Lianna Albrizio is a journalist from Bergen County, New Jersey. She is published in various community newspapers including the Northern ...
