According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the only way to avoid the worst impacts of climate change is to become carbon-neutral.
But do individual actions really matter in the big picture?
Throughout history, it has always been the actions of individuals that have brought about change. Think of Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and all the people behind them. These people have chosen to take a stand when the world needs to change for the better. Now is our time.
Every day, the positive, and negative choices we make affect our friends, family, jobs, and communities. Likewise, the choices we make as individuals and as companies are important and essential in our fight against climate change.
1 – Offset your carbon footprint
It can be confusing to understand what offsetting carbon emissions actually means and whether it makes a difference. In short, we all use energy and emit CO2 in our daily lives (driving, flying, using appliances, heating our homes, etc.). Carbon offsetting is a way of compensating for emissions by funding corresponding carbon savings elsewhere.
Carbon offsets are not a substitute for implementing sustainable practices on a daily basis, but they do help reduce the global impact of carbon emissions that cannot always be avoided.
In order to offset the carbon footprint, Individuals or companies can pay brokers to remove carbon from the atmosphere in another part of the world. Clients calculate emission levels and brokers charge fees based on those levels. The broker then invests part of that money in sustainable projects that reduce help carbon emissions.
2 – Practice Conscious Consumption
Don’t buy more than you need. Ideally, if money allows, choose organic, local, or sustainable products and second-hand goods. Livestock is one of the largest sources of methane emissions, so limiting meat consumption is a highly effective way to reduce the carbon footprint, according to the World Health Organization. Improve your personal health. Animals will be thrilled too.
3 – Save energy when you’re at home
If possible, switch to a zero-carbon or renewable energy provider. Install solar panels on the roof. More efficient:
If possible, turn the heating down a degree or two. Turn off electrical appliances and lights when not in use, and buy the most efficient products immediately (tips: It saves money!). Insulate your attic or roof:It’s warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and saves you money.
4 – Reduce waste
Can you limit garbage collection to once a month? It’s actually pretty easy if you take your soft plastic to the supermarket and frequently recycle leftover food and yard waste into compost. Organic leftovers that end up in landfills produce methane, so composting carrot peels can save the world too!
5 – Be a Conscious Traveller
Embrace your inner backpacker and see if you can reach your destination without a plane. Focus on local transportation, accommodation, and activities in your travels. We argue that this is not only better for the environment, but also makes your vacation more fun and interesting! Also consider commuting by public transport or by bike. This alone will reduce most of your daily emissions.
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