How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
In 2022, environmental issues and the risks of climate change are high on everyone’s agenda. The simple fact is that if we do not start to take more meaningful action in relation to our energy usage and purchase choices, there is a very real risk that our planet will be subject to increasingly violent weather patterns, droughts and flooding. This will increase the likelihood of global famines and make the planet less hospitable for future generations. It is worth noting that we can all take meaningful steps to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and behave in a more environmentally conscious manner. Here are just some of the ways that we can reduce our carbon footprint in our daily lives.
Eco-friendly home improvements
When it comes to home improvements, we now have the choice to purchase eco-friendly materials in our designs. By using a range of eComposite Products in our upgrades, for instance, when installing new outdoor fencing or gates, we are choosing products that have a low carbon footprint and are designed to last for many years before needing to be replaced. In addition to eComposite products, we can opt for sustainable natural materials such as bamboo in our interior designs. Bamboo has impressive green credentials, as it is quickly grown and easy to replenish. Bamboo is also strong and flexible, making it an ideal choice for furniture, which can reduce our reliance on the use of wood, which, in turn, can help to reduce deforestation. The next time you are planning home improvements or renovations, ensure that you choose eco-friendly materials in your designs.
Reduce your car travel
It is easy to jump in a car for short journeys thanks to its convenience; however, our exhaust emissions contribute significantly to environmental pollution. In America, one-third of all air pollution comes from the use of cars. This can cause respiratory problems such as asthma in populations and other related health risks. By relying on car transport, we are also increasing the demand for fossil fuels that make our petrol and diesel. Fossil fuels are key contributors to climate change and the release of greenhouse gasses. Thankfully, it is easy to make meaningful changes in this respect. Why not consider using a bike for shorter journeys and small shopping trips? Bikes produce no air pollution and are one of the greenest forms of transport. In addition, your fitness levels will improve with regular exercise from bike journeys, which will make you feel better and live a healthier life.
Buy locally sourced produce
When you make your next shopping trip, it makes great sense to choose locally sourced produce. Not only will you be supporting local businesses, but you will also be reducing the demand for food that comes from long distances. Some fruits and vegetables travel thousands of miles before they reach our supermarkets and, as a result, have much higher carbon footprints than locally sourced food. As transport is a key contributor to climate change, by making environmentally friendly choices with our shopping habits, we can effectively “vote with our wallets.” This can be an effective way to reduce our carbon footprint as consumers and lessen the demand for long-distance produce.
