8 Ways to Reduce your Carbon Footprint
Carbon footprint is a way to measure the impact each of us have on the environment, especially in relation to climate change. Our carbon footprint is an estimation of the amount of greenhouse gases that each of us uses. Reducing your carbon footprint reduces the negative impact you are having on the planet. Here are 8 ways to reduce your carbon footprint:
1. Use a lower temperature on your washing machine
It takes a lot of energy to heat the water in a washing machine, and it is often unnecessary as most modern detergents are designed to work at lower temperatures. Even on the lowest temperature settings, a good washing machine and detergent should adequately clean and remove stains from your clothing.
2. Buy local produce
If you buy your groceries from a retail outlet or supermarket, your food has probably had to travel a long way to get to your plate. The further your food has to travel, the more energy and fuel will be used, and the more waste will be produced. Buy locally-produced food whenever possible.
3. Buy loose
The amount of waste produced by excess packaging, such as that on most pre-packed meat, fruit and vegetables, is a huge drain on the Earths resources. Buy your food loose, not pre-packed.
4. Turn your thermostat down by a few degrees
Switching your thermostat to a lower temperature can save a significant amount of energy over the space of a year.
5. Quit drinking bottled water
The production process used for creating and distributing plastic bottles has a large carbon footprint. Invest in a water filter to purify your tap water instead, there are many cost-effective options available. This will also save you money in the long term because your outlay after getting the filter is renewal of filters. Good filters can last for several months doeending on your level of usage.
If you have enough space in your garden, plant some trees to help absorb the impurities in the environment. Even just one or two small trees can help to offset some of the damage we are doing to our planet.
My Other Related Articles
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Global warming is liable to have very adverse effects on our environment and the planet in general. However, it is within our means to make small, yet very significant steps in helping mitigate the effects of climate change. These small steps, if don
7. Check your home for energy leaks
Make sure your home is adequately insulated, and keep up-to-date on all servicing and maintenance tasks for your gas and electrical appliances. Fix any dripping taps or water leaks.
8. Unplug your electrical appliances
Don’t leave appliances in standby mode; this still uses up energy and also runs up your electric bill. Unplug all appliances when not in use, especially items such as televisions, computers and mobile phones.
2011 Moira G Gallaga©
