Did you know that there are lots of ways that you as an individual can lessen your impact on the environment? Although it may seem like a drop in the ocean, the fact of the matter is that if more people take the initiative to reduce their carbon footprint it can have a really big impact.
Contrary to what you may imagine, reducing your carbon footprint isn’t really that difficult or inconvenient. In fact there are many easy ways that you can take personal action to reduce your impact on the environment:
- Eat less meat
Overall livestock accounts for 14.5% of manmade greenhouse gas emissions. By cutting your personal meat consumption, you can reduce the demand and potentially reduce your carbon footprint by 8 pounds for each day you go without meat.
- Swap out old electronics and appliances for energy-efficient versions
Nowadays appliances have become much more energy efficient, so you may want to swap out any old relics that you still have. Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but it will also help you to lower your bills.
Start by checking your washing machine, refrigerator, and heating system to see if they should be replaced. Additionally, you may want to switch incandescent light bulbs to LEDs.
- Buy clothes that will last
It may surprise you to know that over 350,000 tons of clothes end up in landfills every year and end up releasing methane when they do. To do your bit you should try to buy clothes that will last and avoid ‘fast fashion’ items that go out of style quickly and end up being discarded.
- Drive more efficiently
While driving less is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint, it may not always be an option. An easier way to cut down emissions is to drive efficiently by going easy on the gas and brakes (or using cruise control), regularly servicing your car, checking your tire pressure, and keeping the load in your car low.
Of course, carpooling is also a good idea too.
- Bring a reusable bag around with you
Having a reusable bag handy can ensure that you don’t always end up using plastic bags that will end up in the landfill. Try to keep one in your car at all times so that it is there if you happen to need to go shopping.
Make no mistake there are many other ways to reduce your carbon footprint, but the ones listed above are definitely the easiest. If you really want to make a bigger impact however, you should look into different ways to cut your carbon footprint down and maybe even join and get involved in an environment foundation.
All said and done if more people start doing their part, it will significantly reduce the impact that humans have on the environment. That is the best way to tackle the climate crisis that is currently gripping the world, and ensure the a brighter future for everyone.
