Introduction
Nowadays we are all more aware about climate change and the effect and impact we have on the climate as a whole. We know that we should use our vehicles less and use public transport, that we should use electricity from a company that provides 100% renewable energy. Most of us are aware to an extent how our lifestyles affect the planet and yet something we do not think about is reducing home carbon output London, because we tend to forget that our homes too make a big contribution towards our carbon footprint.
What is a carbon footprint?
Carbon footprint is the amount of CO2 emissions and methane that is released into the atmosphere through the actions of an individual, organisation or country. It includes direct emissions – heating, transport, manufacturing, and emissions needed to produce the electricity needed for goods and services consumed. The concept of the carbon footprint was an idea of two Canadian researchers in the 1990s as ‘a metaphor for humanity’s impact on the planet.’
Simple ways to reduce your home carbon footprint
While what we do as individuals may not have a noticeable impact initially, every little step we take towards reducing our carbon emissions and footprint contributes towards carbon reductions, which is a win for the planet and a win for humans that call this planet home.
Fly Less – Because emissions from flights are released high in the atmosphere they stay there warming it for several centuries. This obviously has a potent impact on the climate. When we choose to fly less we thereby have less impact on the atmosphere and air pollution, but if we have to fly quire often, say for work there are a few steps that can be taken. Always opt to fly economy, while packing light so as to not contribute too much to the weight of the plane. Book direct flights whenever possible and fly with airlines that are doing something towards offsetting their carbon emissions.
Go plant-based – Recent studies have confirmed that a vegan diet could be the ‘single biggest way’ to reduce a person’s impact on the earth. Cutting meat and dairy products from your diet could reduce an individual carbon footprint by up to 73%, according to researchers at the University of Oxford.
Switch to green heating and electricity – Green heating and electricity are one of the quickest ways to reduce your home’s CO2 emissions and make your home more energy efficient. Green heating is basically energy that comes from a sustainable source that is beneficial for the environment as well as for reducing greenhouse emissions. Solar, wind and biogas power and geothermal are all great renewable sources.
Say no to fast fashion –Fast fashion industry and its supply chain industry are the third largest polluting industry after food and construction. It is responsible for 10% of the global greenhouse gas emissions more than the shipping and aviation industries combined. It further contributed towards pollution which affects the marine ecosystem when their synthetic fibres are washed into the environment.
Switch to renewables – Switching to electric vehicles, using the rail, cycling or walking will have a significant impact on the environment.
Eliminate single-use plastic – Not only does it help with reducing pollution but reducing the demand for plastic helps reduce its contribution towards global climate change. It also forces manufacturers to look for more sustainable materials.
Conclusion
By working to reduce our home’s carbon output we also help ourselves save money while doing our part towards sustaining our planet. It will also give you peace of mind that you are doing your part for future generations by helping to keep our planet healthy. Look into how you can reduce your home’s contribution towards your carbon footprint. Start with a few small changes and you will find that it is not really difficult to do and maintain.
