With decades of science and research, it’s been proven that our planet is getting more inhospitable with time, and concrete steps to fight this have to be taken immediately. There are plenty of ways in which we can help save the environment, and one of the easiest is by reducing our carbon footprint.
Carbon footprint is the sum total of greenhouse gas emissions that arise from the production, use and end-of-life of a product or service. This includes carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and other fluorinated gases which trap heat in the earth’s atmosphere and cause an increase in the earth’s temperature.
Here are 5 ways one can reduce their carbon footprint and make the world a better place:
The easiest way to reduce your carbon footprint is by utilizing public transport, carpooling, a vehicle powered by renewable energy. We can do our share by just riding a bicycle to work, thus working off those calories and also cutting down on emissions.
Eating seasonal, local and organic will go a long way in reducing your carbon footprint. Gourmet and imported food lead to a lot of fuel being spent, thus contributing to global warming. In addition, research has shown that a plant-based diet does less damage to the environment than one that is meat-based.
Air conditioners, refrigerators and other heavy-duty electrical appliances consume high volumes of electricity, thus leading to more fossil fuels being burnt. Small steps such as purchasing energy-efficient appliances, unplugging unused appliances, utilising LED lightbulbs and regular maintenance of appliances will help reduce your carbon footprint.
Staying away from fast fashion and using clothes made out of natural, recyclable materials will help reduce the number of landfills. Something as simple as passing down clothes across generations and wearing garments until they’re worn out will go a long way.
Big or small, a garden with a collection of plants will not only provide a host of benefits, but also help reduce your carbon footprint. As we all know, plants consume carbon dioxide and expel oxygen, thus playing a very important role in minimizing global warming. A balcony garden works well for those living in apartments, while those living in independent houses can opt for a decently-sized fruit or vegetable garden.
