Climate change is very real, and it’s happening all around us whether we like it or not. But it’s never too late to make a change. Are you ready to take control over your personal contribution to climate change? We’ve put together 10 ways you can reduce your carbon footprint... almost immediately!
1. Get moving.
Walk, ride your bike, carpool, take transit! If you plan to move, try to find a place that’s close to where you work AND play. If you do need to drive, check out more eco-friendly options!
2. Reduce your energy consumption.
Ensure your home is properly insulated, turn the lights off when you leave the room (and replace bulbs to energy efficient options), and also consider energy efficient appliances. Another step you can take is making the switch to a modern thermostat that allows you to program custom settings. According to the Energy Department, adjusting your thermostat by 10-15 degrees when you’re not home, or when you are sleeping, can reduce your energy consumption up to 15%!
3. Say no to plastic!
500 million straws are used in the US alone each day and could wrap around the earth 2.5 times! Time to ditch the plastic and try more sustainable options like, ecotribe. Not only are they great for the environment and promote zero waste but they’re also involved with charities that aim to alleviate poverty (in more than 80 different countries) and protect endangered habitats. Say no to plastic bags at the grocery store and bring more eco-friendly options for packaging your groceries.
4. Change your laundry habits.
Flip the switch from warm to cold, and go back to simpler times where grandma and mom would dry clothes out on the line (you can’t beat that unbelievable fresh smell).
5. Consider going cloth.
Baby on the way? Did you know it takes on average 500 years for a single diaper to decompose? Statistics say that about 4 million babies are born each year. By using an average of 8-10 diapers a day per baby, that accounts for a total of 120,000,000 diapers per day!
6. Go paperless!
Bank statements, credit card statements, cell phone statements… the list goes on. By going digital, not only are creating a better tomorrow, but you could be saving money...some companies offer discounts for going digital!
7. Save the water!
Turn it off when you brush your teeth, cut your showers short, and say no to bottled water.
8. Go Remote.
Ask yourself this, instead of flying out to see a client, can the same result be achieved using Skype, Facetime or Facebook?
9. Sustainable Eating.
There are many different ways to eat sustainably! Shop local, support your farmers, grow your own food, eat less meat, eat fruits and vegetables that are in season, think less processed, and cut back on the takeout!
10. Go Tiny.
In addition to less waste and less consumption, going tiny saves you money, creates more flexibility, and even allows you the option to fully go off grid!
Most of these changes can easily be implemented today, and others within a short time! Want to know the impact you’re making? This tool allows you to calculate your own personal carbon footprint. How do you think you measure up?