Start Reducing Your Carbon Emissions With These Simple Tips

Our world has been suffocating from the effects of climate change. A truth that carries a magnanimous amount of dread.

We have been fighting against greenhouse gasses for decades now, if not more. And I think many ordinary people have done their own little parts in trying to reduce their “carbon footprints.”

Let’s all do what we can to alleviate Earth’s suffering. Check this list out and see if you are already doing these things to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions!

Laundry Routine

First off is something that may seem insignificant but can totally be a game changer.

According to The American Cleaning Institute (ACI), an astonishing 90% of the energy used by a washing machine during laundry goes solely towards heating the water.

So use cold water when you do laundry at full capacity. This will lessen your energy consumption, save you some money, and, ultimately, help save the planet.

Unplug

Go out and touch some grass! Well, actually, this one’s not really about unplugging ourselves from our devices, although that helps in reducing our carbon footprints too.

Literally unplug is what I meant. You know that side table lamp that you always have plugged in, or maybe you have that one fan that’s always ready to give you some cool breeze? Yeah. Unplug them when they’re not in use.

Although it’s not turned on, as long as an appliance is plugged in, it still wastes electricity, hence emitting unnecessary carbon emissions.

Say No To Disposable Products

Sure, disposable products are convenient, but they’re not Earth-friendly.

The most notorious disposable product right now is probably plastic bags, as well as those plastic cups and containers, and with the rise of online shopping, packaging boxes.

Now I can’t really tell you all to stop ordering things online — I am guilty of that as well, but if the seller can be asked to change the packaging a bit or pack more items in the same box, then do so. Recycling these boxes will also help.

There are other ways that we can reduce the use of disposable products. For example, I have bought reusable straws, utensils, water bottles, and eco-bags to do my part in reducing my single-use products.

Try Upcycling

This one suits the creatives the most. Recycle what you can, but try upcycling for other things. Upcycling is kind of like an upgraded recycling where one takes an old thing and turns it into another item.

Say you have old clothes that have been left in the bottom of your drawer. Upcycle them and turn them into a rug, perhaps? There are a lot of ways to use upcycled products. Use them yourself or sell them, turn them into a business even.

Eat Those Vegetables

How does eating vegetables reduce carbon emissions? It’s not simply just the act of eating them.

Growing and consuming organic crops like vegetables and wheat produce lower carbon footprints than their commercial alternatives. Buying locally reduces energy and carbon emissions from transportation and production costs, since the plants are being sold fresh from the farm or in the local area.

Looking at the even larger picture, buying or consuming organic goods, most likely from local farmers or businesses, will help not only the local economy, but also the planet.

Food Waste Isn’t A Waste

The main point of this is that you shouldn’t have food waste at all if you can help it. Buy only what you need, and cook the appropriate number of servings needed to reduce food waste. Better yet, try meal planning for a minimal chance of having any waste.

Those with a garden are probably already doing this one, but if you do have food waste, it doesn’t always have to end up in the garbage bin. Food waste can be turned into food for your soil. Composting is a great solution, especially for those who frequently prepare and cook their own meals.

Travel Plan Alternatives

Oof. Remember that news about Taylor Swift and her private jet trips?

Alright, I know not everyone’s got their own jets or helicopters. But the point I’m trying to make here is that traveling can produce a lot of carbon emissions. Did you know that transportation is seen as the biggest contributor to greenhouse gasses in the U.S.?

So plan smart! It’s the usual battle between convenience and being earth-friendly. Excessive use of private vehicles can accumulate a massive carbon footprint. If you can, just walk! If it’s a bit far for a walk, use a bike. The last option would be to take public transportation for even farther trips.

Car Health

Since we’re already talking about transportation, let’s talk about our cars.

Car maintenance can be quite expensive, but it is necessary. Maintaining our cars’ health is equivalent to us also maintaining our own bodily health. Always keep an eye on your tires’ pressure. More power and carbon emission is needed when driving a car running on low-pressure tires.

Driving style can also affect the amount of carbon emissions we accumulate on a drive. Avoid stepping on the brakes and then accelerating frequently. Drive smoothly and you will be able to reduce fuel consumption, energy use, and emissions.

Paint the Earth Green

Green thumbs, this one’s for you! I don’t know about you, but I’ve seen a growing trend of plant lovers lately, especially since the pandemic, and that is absolutely great news..

They call them “plantitas/plantitos” in the Philippines, and they boomed during the Pandemic. The growth of home gardening during that time was marvelous to witness actually. My own father, who’s always had a green thumb, thrived and planted so many additions in our little garden.

Ah, but I digress. This last point is simply that one can plant their own trees, flowers, or whatever really, in their own home.

Doing so not only reduces your carbon footprint, but you’re actively encouraging the absorption of carbon dioxide in your area.

So there you have it! Simple tips that you can start doing now if you’re not already doing them.

Share this article to your friends, and let’s collectively fight in this seemingly neverending battle against climate change!