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Your carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including carbon dioxide and methane) that are generated by your actions. If we all make efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, we would see slowed climate change, improvement in air quality and economic growth to name just a few. Curious what your carbon footprint is? Use this calculator.
There are many small changes we can make in our homes to minimize our carbon footprint and play our part in preserving the environment. Here are a few:
- Unplug
Even if electronics are turned off, they still suck energy when they are plugged in. Be sure you keep things unplugged when they are not in use. This will also help bring down your energy bill. - Plant a Garden
This will instantly reduce your carbon footprint because plants absorb carbon dioxide. Plant a small garden of bee-friendly flowers, a few trees, or a vegetable garden. If you’re limited on space, balcony gardens are functional and easy to care for. - Line Dry Clothes
Did you know one dryer load uses five times more electricity than a washer load? This simple change can reduce your household’s carbon footprint by 2,400 pounds a year! (www.greenamerica.org) - Avoid Single Use Plastic
Say “No, thank you!” to plastic utensils, plastic bags, paper plates and napkins. Opt for reusable options, chances are you already have them at home. - Reuse
Think twice about throwing things away. If it can be repaired, or if it is in good condition find a way to reuse the item and keep it out of the landfills. - Shop Sustainably
Avoid fast fashion and opt for products that have a long life cycle. This will help you avoid early or premature replacements. Do your best to be a conscious consumer and support local and sustainable brands whenever possible. - Recycle
Last, but certainly not least! It seems obvious, but recycling is a major way to reduce your carbon footprint. Be sure to research your municipality’s recycling laws and educate yourself on how to properly recycle.
As a bonus incentive — nine times out of ten, the environmentally-friendly option is also the cheaper option. Save some money while you’re saving the planet!
It is important to be environmentally conscious and to pass on those values to the next generation. We double our efforts when we get our kids involved, helping them understand the impact our choices have on the environment. If we involve them in our eco-friendly efforts it will become second-nature to them when they are adults.
Categories: Homeowner, Shorewest Tips, Uncategorized
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